Olowu, AIG Ewah Seek Stronger Security Intelligence Network In Osun, Oyo

The Olowu of Kuta Kingdom, Oba (Dr.) Hammed Adekunle Oyelude Makama, has urged the newly deployed Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of Zone 11, Osogbo, AIG Bassey S. Ewah, to rebuild public confidence in the police and strengthen security cooperation across Osun and Oyo States.

The monarch made the call when he received Ewah at his palace in Kuta, Osun State, during a meeting focused on security, community policing, traditional institutions and peaceful coexistence.

Oba Makama described Ewah as an experienced security professional and urged him to uphold the character and integrity for which he was known as he assumed responsibility for policing coordination across the two states.

He said the AIG’s deployment presented an opportunity to strengthen trust between residents and security agencies, particularly amid concerns about security and public confidence before and after elections.

The monarch stressed that the police must remain accessible to the public, noting that effective policing depended largely on information-sharing and cooperation between security agencies and the communities they serve.

Using the proverb that “the bush does not shake without a cause,” Oba Makama urged residents to report suspicious activities and other security concerns to the appropriate authorities.

He also called for stronger cooperation between the police and the Osun State Government, saying security required coordinated efforts by government, law enforcement agencies, traditional institutions and citizens.

The monarch noted that the standards established by the AIG at the zonal level would influence policing across the state commands under his jurisdiction. He expressed confidence that Ewah would provide the leadership needed to strengthen security ahead of future elections.

In his response, Ewah assured residents of Osun and Oyo States that his administration would operate an open-door policy and welcome constructive criticism from the public.

“Our doors are open. There is no protocol to see us. We are ready to receive criticism, but constructively. It will help us to bring out the best in us,” he said.

The AIG urged the Commissioners of Police in both states to maintain open communication channels with residents and encourage them to report security concerns directly to the appropriate authorities.

He said information provided by members of the public would be treated seriously, adding that the identities of informants would be protected.

Ewah emphasised that effective policing depended on strong partnerships between the police and the public, as well as reliable intelligence from communities.

“I look for a very strong synergy between the police and members of the public. That relationship is underpinned by my abiding respect for traditional institutions. Without them, we cannot police well,” he said.

The AIG acknowledged the cooperation extended to his predecessors, including former Zone 11 AIG Fasuba, and said he would draw on his operational experience in the North-East to strengthen security in his new area of responsibility.

He said his previous assignments in Maiduguri, Borno State, and Yobe State had exposed him to complex security challenges and provided experience that could contribute to policing across Zone 11.

Ewah also pledged to work with traditional rulers, other stakeholders and political actors to promote peace and stability in Osun and Oyo States.

He advocated “politics without bitterness,” urging political actors to set aside partisan differences after elections and embrace peaceful coexistence.

According to him, political disagreements should not undermine relationships or threaten peace, as Nigerians remain connected by their common humanity.

Zone 11 comprises the Osun and Oyo State Police Commands. The meeting at the Olowu’s palace provided an early opportunity for the new zonal police leadership and the traditional institution to reaffirm their commitment to intelligence-led policing, public confidence and community cooperation.