I-GP restates commitment to crackdown on cultism

Sabongidda-Ora (Edo) –  The Inspector-General of Police, Mr Solomon Arase, on Saturday said that the Police would continue to crackdown on cultism and other forms of criminality in the country.
Arase made the pledge shortly after a‎ ceremony organised in his honour by the Ora-ekpen Development Association (ODA) in Sabongidda-Ora, Owan West Local Government Area of Edo.
He said the crackdown would be sustained in order to ensure and maintain peace in the country.
Arase explained that though no society could be totally rid of crime, the results from the crack squad had shown that the country could be made safe.
He said that the force would continue to dismantle police roadblocks; a directive which he insisted had been ineffective.
The I-GP also promised to deal with cultism across the country.
“I have dealt with it in Edo State; I have dealt with it in Kogi State; I have dealt with it in Ekiti State and I will continue to deal with them (cultists) wherever they rear their heads.
“But let me just say this, there is no society that is crime-free, but you can make it tolerable; that is exactly what we intend to do.
“The roadblock was not a panacea or crime prevention strategy.‎
“It is an avenue that creates social friction between us and members of the public, `he said.
He said that plans were on for the implementation of police reforms, including human rights issues and intelligence policing.
‎Arase promised to continue to portray the values of honesty, discipline and hard work which he learnt from his community.
The President of the ODA, Prof. Sam Ahonkhai, explained that the reception was organised to appreciate the I-GP, whom he described as `an illustrious son of the community.’
He said that Arase appointment had showed that individuals could aspire and work hard to achieve their goals in the interest of the country.
Earlier, Gov. Adams Oshiomhole of Edo had commended the I-GP for improving the performance of the security agency since he assumed office as the police chief in May.
Oshiomhole, while urging Nigerians to contribute their support for the police, said that the people of the state ‎would also celebrate him as their own.
Arase was conferred with the traditional title of “Ogiagbase of Ora Kingdom”, along with his wife, Agharese.