The Uzebba community in Owan West Local Government Area of Edo State has significantly enhanced local security by constructing and donating a brand new Divisional Police Station to the Nigerian Police Force (NPF).
The state-of-the-art facility was officially handed over to the police command on Wednesday in Uzebba, marking a pivotal moment for the community and its commitment to law and order.
Mr. Newton Ileaboya, President of the Uzebba Welfare Association (UWA), presided over the handover ceremony. He emphasized that the upgraded facility, now a fully functional divisional police station, is intended to provide a safer environment for residents and businesses in Uzebba and its surrounding areas.
“To the community members, I express my gratitude for your timeless efforts in supporting the project,” Ileaboya stated.
“Your contribution, whether financial or otherwise, has been invaluable. I would specifically acknowledge the Uzebba Welfare executives and members both home and abroad for their unwavering support and their commitment toward the police upgrade.” Ileaboya further expressed his gratitude to all sons and daughters of Uzebba whose dedication enabled the completion of this vital infrastructure project.
Representing the Commissioner of Police, Mrs. Betty Otimenyin, Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Adetoye Adepegba, responsible for Finance and Administration at the Edo Police Command, formally inaugurated the new station. DCP Adepegba lauded the Uzebba community for their proactive initiative, highlighting its alignment with the Inspector-General of Police’s emphasis on community policing.
“The Inspector-General of Police (I-G) has been promoting and hammering on the idea of community policing, which is hinged on the relationship between the members of the community and the police,” DCP Adepegba said.
“The idea is that there should not be any gap left for criminals to capitalize upon and terrorize the community. Nothing can demonstrate the spirit of community policing better than this gesture from the Uzebba community, and we so much appreciate it.” He assured the community that the police force would ensure the station is properly utilized and meticulously maintained to serve its intended purpose.
Chief Samuel Dogoh, the Utebi of Aoma, a prominent traditional ruler, also expressed his appreciation to the UWA leadership for spearheading the initiative. He emphasized the critical role the new police station will play in safeguarding lives and property within his domain.
“I want to thank the Commissioner of Police for giving us the privilege to have a divisional police headquarters,” Chief Dogoh said. “But we wish to request for increased manpower and other resources since God has used you to upgrade us to divisional command.”
Furthermore, Chief Dogoh made a special appeal to the Edo CP to retain SP Joshua Ikpefua as the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of the Uzebba Divisional Police Station.
“We wish to appreciate you for sending him to us sometimes in November 2024. Uzebba has witnessed relative peace since he became the DPO of the station. His approach to the security of the community and its environs has been effective,” Chief Dogoh explained, highlighting SP Ikpefua’s positive impact on local security.
The donation of the new Divisional Police Station underscores the Uzebba community’s proactive approach to addressing security challenges and their strong partnership with the Nigerian Police Force. The new station is expected to significantly enhance policing capabilities and foster a safer environment for all residents.
