Posted by By PATRICK ASONYE on
In a matter of time, Lagos residents would go to bed with both eyes shut, as the police intensify efforts to run violent criminals, particularly armed robbers, out of town.
In a matter of time, Lagos residents would go to bed with both eyes shut, as the police intensify efforts to run violent criminals, particularly armed robbers, out of town.
That was the assurance given yesterday by the State's Police Commissioner, Mohammed Abubakar while responding to concerns expressed in some quarters about crime wave in the state.
Abubakar pointedly said his men are in control of the security situation, admitting though that robberies were yet to be completely wiped out in the state - his ultimate goal.
'It is not true that robbers have overwhelmed us. It couldn't have been true because, I think, only a blind person would say he does not see our efforts in fighting violent crime in the state. It is not in my character to judge myself. Let the public judge us. But I dare say that we have done well in the circumstance. However, I maintain that there is still room for improvement; because vis-à-vis the equipment we have, I still believe that we can do more."
He continued: 'Compared to where I met Lagos when I came in July last year, I'd rather say the public and Almighty God judge us whether we have done what we ought to do or not."
On arms strength, Abubakar said: 'What I do know is that there has been improvement in our cache of arms and ammunition, but the number I would not be able to say. All I can say is that there is an improvement, and it would be noticed in the way we respond, and the way we handle situations of that nature, that has to do with robbery and car snatchings."
Abubakar is known to work day and night, in a manner that motivates his men, yet residents are worried that robberies still persist.
The Police boss urged understanding from Lagosians, saying, however:
'I am not aware of any city that is robbery-free. If you know any, I need to be told. Lagosians should do me a favour, compare my tenure in Lagos with my predecessors; whether I did what I'm supposed to do or not; whether I made efforts or not. I am currently having sleepless nights.
My colleagues passed here, and some of them went to bed anytime they wanted, not so with me. I'm conscious of the fact that I have responsibility bestowed on me by the Almighty God and the people of this country. The things we need are coming in trickles, and in matter of time, we'll get there."