Security in New Owerri is under fresh focus as the Imo State Police Command brought together key stakeholders in a high-level summit aimed at tightening safety across the area.
The meeting, held on March 3, 2026, signals a shift toward community-driven policing, with authorities acknowledging that lasting security cannot be achieved without active public participation.
Hosted by the Divisional Police Officer of New Owerri, CSP Safiyanu Usman Gwarzo, the summit drew traditional rulers, government officials, business owners, youth leaders, and residents into a shared conversation about the growing need for coordinated action.
Rather than a routine gathering, the session created room for direct feedback—allowing community members to highlight real concerns and suggest practical solutions tied to everyday security challenges.
Representing the Commissioner of Police, Audu Garba Bosso, the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Operations, DCP Hamzat Abdulkadir, delivered a clear message: security must be treated as a joint responsibility.
He stressed that while the police remain committed to protecting lives and property, meaningful results depend on trust, cooperation, and timely information from residents.
Traditional leadership also backed the initiative.
HRM Eze Dr. Lucky Okoro, who stood in for the Eze Imo, described the summit as both timely and necessary, noting that peace and economic growth in New Owerri are closely tied to improved security collaboration.
Senior officers present—including the Area Commander, Owerri Urban, and heads of intelligence and tactical units—emphasised the importance of intelligence-led operations and stronger communication between communities and security agencies.
They warned that without credible local information, even the most robust security frameworks risk falling short.
The Police Command reiterated its commitment to proactive policing, positioning engagement and prevention as key strategies moving forward.
For residents, however, the responsibility is no longer passive.
Authorities are urging continuous vigilance and active reporting of suspicious activities, making it clear that security outcomes will depend on how well both sides—police and public—work together.
The summit sets the tone.
What follows will determine whether it delivers real change.
