The new Commissioner of Police in Ekiti State, Michael Falade, resumed office on Monday, March 30, pledging a firm stance against crime and a commitment to improving security across the state.
Falade said he was in Ekiti to serve the public with honesty, fairness, integrity, humility, and respect for citizens’ rights, adding that he would “prioritise the security of lives and property of all residents of the state.”
Speaking to journalists in Ado Ekiti, he acknowledged the work of his predecessor, AIG Joseph Eribo, and vowed to build on the legacy left during his tenure.
He said his team would collaborate with sister agencies and other stakeholders to ensure public safety. “We shall create an atmosphere where everyone can sleep peacefully and go about their lawful activities without fear or threat,” Falade said.
The commissioner outlined plans including intelligence-led policing, visible patrols, raids on criminal hideouts, bush combing operations, and other crime prevention measures.
He highlighted security concerns along some of the state’s borders and promised to strengthen these areas through coordinated efforts with security agencies, local security outfits, and relevant partners.
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Falade called on residents to actively cooperate in maintaining law and order, stressing that effective policing requires community participation.
“Policing is an uphill task and can only be successfully executed when everybody plays their role and participates actively in the campaign against crime,” he said.
Falade assured that his administration would be citizen-friendly but firm against criminal activity.
“I will establish quicker responses to complaints. I call on all security agencies, unions, associations, religious leaders, non-governmental organisations, students, the mass media and members of the public to support and collaborate with the police in order to ensure a crime-free society. All hands must be on deck in the fight against crimes and criminality,” he added.
He emphasised adherence to the rule of law and human rights, warning that violations by officers or citizens would not be tolerated.
Addressing officers under his command, Falade assured them of protection for their welfare and rights, urging them to remain diligent, professional, firm but approachable, and to avoid corruption. “Only by doing these can we be citizens’ friends indeed,” the CP said.