By Kabiru Dogon Daji
Birnin Kebbi
The Commissioner of Police in Kebbi state, Ishaku Barau, has solicited for cooperation and harmonious working relationship with journalists ahead of the 2015 general elections.
Barau, who made the call yesterday when he paid a familirisation visit to the office of the Correspondents Chapel in Birnin Kebbi, enjoined working journalists in the state to assist the command in its sensitisation crusade against political violence as 2015 elections, draws nearer.
He noted that the command alone could not fight the menace, “that is why am today visiting other sister military and paramilitary formations in the state with a view to joining hands together to ensure peaceful conduct of the forthcoming elections across the state.”
Barau stressed that for the battle to be fought and won; journalists must be carried along, “therefore, I am here to seek the cooperation of all of you.”
He said that despite the state been one of the most peaceful in the country, yet there could be politically motivated violence, especially at this crucial period where a considerable number of those aspiring as well intending to aspire for elective positions were jostling to emerged victorious.
The commissioner, however, disclosed that the command was fully prepared to ensure safety of lives and property of citizens before and after the elections.
“We will continue our job of ensuring peaceful coexistence amongst people as well to safeguard lives of innocent citizens,” he said.
While appealing to general public to report any suspicious character to the nearest police outpost for quick intervention, adding that the public had a duty to take their security seriously by monitoring and evaluating people around them.
Responding the State Council Chairman of Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Alhaji Tukur Umar, described the visit as “a signed of responsibility and maturity of the state command” and assured the commissioner of continued support and cooperation of the working journalists.