The Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC), Cross River State Chapter, has inaugurated its new State Executive Committee and invested Pastor Ekpenyong Cobham, the Muri of Efut Nation, Prof. Itam Hogan and four others as State Patrons, with a call on members to strengthen police-community relations, promote peaceful coexistence and enhance grassroots security across the State.
The inauguration, held at the Police Officers' Mess, Moore Road, Calabar, brought together key stakeholders committed to fostering mutual understanding and cooperation between the Nigeria Police Force and the public.
In his remarks, the Commissioner of Police, Cross River State Command, represented by the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Operations, DCP Godwin Etim, charged the newly inaugurated executives to see their positions as an opportunity to serve humanity and promote peace and understanding among the State's diverse ethnic and religious groups.
He said their responsibilities include discussing issues concerning the safety of lives and property, receiving and considering security reports from towns, cities, villages and communities within their respective areas, and making appropriate decisions and recommendations to protect and advance the interests of the PCRC for the good of the people of Cross River State.
In his goodwill message, the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Pastor Ekpenyong Ene Cobham, who was invested alongside five other individuals, reaffirmed the Cross River State Government's commitment to strengthening police-community partnerships that would enhance effective and efficient community policing.
He described the PCRC as a vital link between the Police and the people, assuring the committee of the Ministry's support in promoting public awareness, grooming responsible citizenship and building confidence in the Police.
He also urged the new executives to be inclusive, transparent and proactive in carrying all three senatorial districts along.
The newly inaugurated State Executives include Prof. Otu Archibong as Chairman, Chief Iniekong Essien and Dr. Felix Okon as Vice Chairmen, and ASP Sunday Eitokpah as State Secretary, alongside other members.
Patrons invested include HRM Prof. Itam Hogan Itam, HRH Edidem Okon Ayito, Mr. Obua Lekwa Famous and others.
The new leadership is expected to deepen collaboration with traditional rulers, community leaders, youth organisations and other stakeholders to promote peace, improve intelligence sharing and contribute to a safer Cross River State.
By Daniel Nsa
