Otukpo LG Chairman, new DPO align strategies to tackle insecurity, curb kidnapping

The Executive Chairman of Otukpo Local Government Area, Hon. Prince Maxwell Ogiri, has met with the newly deployed Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Otukpo Division, Mr. Steven M. Ahi, to strengthen efforts aimed at tackling insecurity and curbing kidnapping in the area.

The meeting took place on Tuesday at the Otukpo Local Government Council Secretariat during a familiarization visit by the new DPO.

Mr. Ahi, a seasoned Mobile Police officer, was redeployed from MOPOL 76 Squadron, Nsukka, where he served as Second-in-Command. His posting comes at a time of heightened concern over security challenges, particularly kidnapping and related crimes in Otukpo and its environs.

During the engagement, both officials discussed practical strategies to enhance the local security architecture. Hon. Ogiri described the deployment as a demonstration of confidence by the police authorities in Mr. Ahi’s capacity to address the prevailing challenges.

The Chairman reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting all security agencies, emphasizing that the protection of lives and property remains a top priority. He expressed confidence that the new DPO’s experience would translate into improved security outcomes.

In his remarks, Mr. Ahi disclosed that he had commenced stakeholder engagement, including visits to traditional and community leaders. He noted that he had received royal blessings from the Och’Idoma, His Royal Majesty Agabaidu Dr. John Elaigwu Obagaji Odogbo, and had also held consultations with leaders of the Muslim community, various ethnic groups, and other stakeholders to encourage cooperation and intelligence sharing.

The DPO also raised concerns over the underutilization of farmlands in parts of the Ghana Chito axis due to fear of kidnappers and armed attacks. He assured residents that renewed security measures were being implemented to restore confidence and enable a return to normal economic activities.

Signed:
Comrade Joshua Otene
Chief Press Secretary to the Executive Chairman, Otukpo LGA