Anambra Police Commissioner Launches Advocacy for School Security, Urges Resumption of Academic Activities

 

The Commissioner of Police in Anambra State, CP Ikioye Orutugu, has ramped up efforts to ensure the safety of schools across the state and support the restoration of academic activities that were disrupted by the illegal sit-at-home order. During a recent visit to several schools on March 12, 2025, CP Orutugu emphasized the importance of protecting students, teachers, and school staff from the ongoing security challenges while reiterating the need to revive normal learning in the state.

As part of the Police Safe School Initiative, CP Orutugu's visit focused on advocating for greater security presence in schools to shield them from potential threats and criminal activities. He underscored how the sit-at-home directive, which had been imposed by unknown groups, had severely hampered education and social life in the state, leaving students and school staff vulnerable to attacks. The police chief assured the public that the Nigeria Police Force, alongside other security agencies, had stepped up its efforts to restore peace and order in the state, particularly on Mondays when the sit-at-home order had been most disruptive.

CP Orutugu, during his visit, revealed that the Police Safe School Initiative is a comprehensive security strategy designed to address the rising incidents of violence in educational institutions. The initiative, he explained, aims to proactively prevent criminal activities within schools, foster strong partnerships with school administrators and local communities, and ensure the availability of the necessary resources to bolster security measures in learning institutions.

"This initiative is crucial in ensuring that our schools are safe places for students and staff to carry out their activities without fear of insecurity," CP Orutugu stated. "We are committed to enhancing the security of our educational institutions, preventing crime, and providing an environment conducive to learning for our children and youths."

According to a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, the Police Safe School Initiative is designed to achieve multiple goals. These include the heightened security of students, teachers, and staff, the prevention of crime within the school environment, and the creation of a safer, more confident learning atmosphere. Additionally, it seeks to foster collaboration between security agencies and school administrators to ensure that security measures are both effective and responsive to the unique challenges faced by schools.

The CP's visit was also attended by the State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Welfare, Hon. Ify Obinabo, who joined the police chief in engaging with local communities and school officials. Together, they urged the people of Anambra to resume their normal activities without fear or hesitation. They encouraged parents to send their children back to school confidently and assured them that their safety is a top priority for the state government and security agencies.

CP Orutugu commended the resilience of Anambra residents for gradually reclaiming their Mondays from the grip of the sit-at-home order, a development that has seen economic and social activities slowly returning to normal. He praised the determination of the people to defy the disruptions and continue with their daily routines, despite the challenges posed by the insecurity in the state.

“We are proud of the strength and courage displayed by the people of Anambra. Your determination to return to normal life is commendable,” the CP said. “The Nigeria Police Force is committed to maintaining peace and security, ensuring that our children, teachers, and staff can safely engage in their educational activities."

The Police Safe School Initiative is expected to not only enhance security in schools but also to create a safer environment across Anambra State, providing residents and educational institutions the assurance they need to thrive without the fear of insecurity. With strengthened partnerships between the police and local communities, the initiative promises to be an essential tool in tackling crime and restoring peace in the state.

As the people of Anambra gradually regain their confidence and continue to rebuild their communities, the renewed focus on school safety highlights the state's commitment to protecting its most valuable assets—the students, teachers, and their futures.