The Agbekoya Society of Nigeria has urged the implementation of community policing to address the rising security challenges in some parts of the country.
The society’s President, Mr Okikiola Kamorudeen, made the call in a statement issued in Lagos on Sunday.
Agbekoya is a Yoruba farmers and hunters association committed to protecting rural communities.
Kamorudeen appealed to President Bola Tinubu to declare a state of emergency on food insecurity across Nigeria.
He said such a declaration would enhance food production and curb insecurity and cybercrime, particularly among Nigerian youths.
Kamorudeen noted that community policing enjoys wide support, adding that Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, had also endorsed it as a solution to insecurity.
“The society has deployed nearly 4,000 personnel to secure farmers in the Southwest, significantly reducing kidnappings and violent clashes in rural areas,” he said.
In February 2024, Agbekoya urged the Federal Government to arm its members and similar local outfits to better confront regional security threats.
He stated that local outfits, familiar with their communities, are best placed to respond quickly and effectively to local security issues.
Kamorudeen said that Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, also backed community policing and encouraged residents to support the initiative and work with security agencies.
Kamorudeen maintained that the growing support from traditional institutions and local groups shows a shift toward grassroots-led security strategies.
He said this collaboration could help build a more secure, peaceful, and united Nigeria.