By Tola Gbadamosi

In a bid to strengthen security across Ondo State, the Commissioner of Police, Wilfred Olutokunbo Afolabi, has engaged members of the Fulani community in Ijebu-Owo, urging them to support efforts to curb criminal activities, particularly kidnapping.

The meeting, held in Owo, was aimed at fostering collaboration between the police and the Fulani residents, who were reminded of their role in ensuring peace and stability.

Afolabi warned against harbouring criminals under the guise of ethnic solidarity and stressed the need for genuine intelligence-sharing to tackle insecurity.

According to a statement by the Police Public Relations Officer, Funmilayo Odunlami, the police commissioner emphasised that security should be a collective effort.

He urged the Fulani community to work with law enforcement and avoid shielding individuals involved in criminal acts.

Addressing the issue of clashes between herders and farmers, Afolabi cautioned against encroaching on farmlands, noting that both agriculture and cattle rearing are essential to economic growth.

He called for mutual respect between the two groups to prevent avoidable conflicts.

In response, leaders of the Fulani community lauded the police for their efforts in maintaining law and order.

They pledged their support in the fight against crime and assured the commissioner that they would not harbour or protect criminals within their ranks.

The Ondo State Police Command reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring the safety of all residents, urging communities to collaborate in making the state more secure.