Yuletide season: Lagos police officer calls on citizens to be more proactive

Sat, Nov 26, 2022
By editor
4 MIN READ

Security

By Kennedy Nnamani

DSP Israel J. Adejoh, Officer in charge of Zonal Gender section at the zone 2 Headquarters of Lagos police command, has called on citizens to be more proactive and vigilant, especially at this period of yuletide.

Adejoh made this call on Friday in Lagos while presenting the keynote address at the 5th Anniversary of the publisher of The Message International Magazine with the theme: Security Tips During Yuletide Period.

At the event which also witnessed the presentation of the Eminent Personalities Awards, EPA, Adejoh stated that Yuletide covers the period of Christmas and the New Year and that one needs to be careful and keep safe, sound and fully protected.

“While one may be carried away with these activities, it is pertinent to note also that the season comes with its own downsides among these include: a rise in theft, fraud, accident and other crimes.

“Although the security agencies are in place to tackle these vices, we should all acknowledge the fact that when it comes to the issue of security, it must be seen as an issue of collective responsibility rather than an issue of individual responsibility,” he said.

While highlighting some security tips on how to stay safe during and after this period, Adejoh, who was also an awardee, advised that people should beware of their environment.

“Anywhere you are during this yuletide, pay attention to your surroundings, stay alert, keep your phone safe and don’t be distracted by things around you at the expense of your safety.

“Be sure to stay alert and keep an eye out for anything that doesn’t feel safe or makes you feel uncomfortable. Avoid loud music at homes, not only does this cause noise pollution, it also attracts burglars.

“Gift items and flashy possessions such as phones and so on should be kept properly and away from windows. Keep all important documents safe and out of the public eye. Avoid moving with large amounts of money during this period.

“On no account must you come out late at night in order to turn off a running tap because it could be a trap set by criminals,” ha said.

In addition, he called on all to control their posts on social media, noting that moderation to social media updates is necessary, especially with the rising spate of insecurity plaguing the country.

He cautioned against people broadcasting all their itinerary, disclosing their travel plans on the internet, which he warned could attract burglars and even kidnappers.

He also warned that the use of Christmas trees, and electrical decorations may lead to fire outbreaks when not properly applied.

Furthermore, Adejoh emphasized on the risk of hanging out with strangers. He noted that although the internet age has allowed people to meet and connect with new people and friends even from other saner climes, one should have a second thought on hanging out with newly met friends at this time.

“Be careful where you park your car,” he advised. “Park and lock your car in secured, well-lit areas. If you think you are being followed, don’t stop until you find a crowded area. If you are extremely concerned, go to the nearest police station or call the police. Do not make your way home until you are sure you are safe. Be wise and shine your eyes very well.

“Avoid walking through dark pathways. Walk in open spaces and areas that are well-lit and be cautious and conscious. Don’t stay out late during this Yuletide like you do most times of the year. Don’t take short cuts or apian way, it may take longer, but it’s always better to be safe than sorry.”

In his conclusion, he enjoined everyone to always remember that members of the Nigeria Police are your friends and would always remain your friends, noting that “the successes of the Nigeria Police as the Leading Internal Security Agency, are not dependable on our efforts alone, but would wholeheartedly require your full cooperation and assistance in order to perform at maximum capacity.”

KN

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