By Ovat Abeng
In line with the directive of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, on curbing unlawful interference by the Police in civil and land-related matters, the Anambra State Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, on Wednesday, hosted the leadership of Anambra State Association Town Unions (ASATU), at the Police Command Headquarters, Awka.
The meeting, which was convened to strengthen Police-Community relations and promote adherence to the rule of law, centered on the recurring challenges arising from land disputes and the need for communities to embrace lawful and peaceful means of resolving such issues.
In his address, CP Orutugu reiterated the IGP’s directive that Police officers must refrain from interfering in civil disputes, particularly those involving land matters, boundary disagreements, inheritance, or ownership claims. He emphasized that such matters should be strictly handled by competent courts of law rather than through Police intervention.
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The CP further appealed to Ndi Anambra to always seek redress in court and resist the temptation to resort to self-help or violence, noting that such actions often result in breaches of public peace and avoidable loss of lives and property.
Responding, the President of the Association, Chief Vin Dike, commended the Commissioner of Police for his proactive leadership and for providing clarity on the IGP’s directive. He pledged the cooperation of all town unions in sensitizing their communities to follow due process and uphold peace in resolving land-related issues.
The meeting concluded with a renewed commitment from both parties to continue collaborating towards sustaining peace, justice, and lawful coexistence across Anambra State.
