06/02/2025
Oto-Obong Okon Essien, Ikono Council Boss Strengthens Security Collaboration as CP Baba Mohammed Azare, - fsi, Visit... _reiterated her administration's resolve to address key security challenges, including the overgrazing of farmland by Fulani herdsmen_
February 5, 2025
In a commendable demonstration of leadership and community partnership, the Executive Chairman of Ikono Local Government Area, Rt. Hon. Oto-Obong Okon Essien, warmly welcomed CP Baba Mohammed Azare, fsi, the Commissioner of Police for Akwa Ibom State, on an official Familiarity Visit to Ikono.
The Commissioner, accompanied by his distinguished entourage, which included Commander of 26 PMF, ACP Agboola Alorudeen; ACP Asuquo Ebong, Area Commander, Ikot Ekpene; ACP Adamu Abare; ACP Joseph Udoh; CSP Umar Farouk; DPO Ikono Division, CSP Peter Musa; DSP Timfon John; and other key team leaders, was warmly received by the Council Boss and other dignitaries. In her address, Rt. Hon. Oto-Obong Okon Essien expressed profound appreciation for CP Azare’s steadfast professionalism and the visible commitment he and his team exhibit in safeguarding the lives and properties of the Ikono indigenes.
Emphasizing the strategic importance of Ikono’s geographical location, the Executive Chairman assured the Commissioner of her administration’s unwavering dedication to bolstering security within the LGA. She highlighted the close working relationship maintained with the Divisional Police Officer of Ikono, a synergy deemed critical for sustaining peace in the area.
During his address, CP Baba Mohammed Azare underscored the significance of the Familiarity Visit as an opportunity to deepen collaborative ties with local government leaders. He elaborated on initiatives aimed at reinforcing the security framework across rural communities, noting that effective security is essential to protect citizens and promote socio-economic progress. The Commissioner also solicited support from the Ikono Council to equip the local Police Division Station with additional occupational vehicles and manpower, further emphasizing the need for adequate resources to address pressing concerns such as land disputes and the destructive impact of overgrazing by Fulani herdsmen. He advised that incidents of cattle-related crop destruction be immediately reported to the Divisional Police Officer, with subsequent referral to the State Headquarters for swift investigative action, prosecution, and remediation.
The Commissioner’s call for enhanced collaboration extended to all stakeholders, as he urged traditional leaders and community representatives to partner closely with the Police Force in the joint pursuit of lasting peace and security. In a strongly worded directive, he reminded deployed officers to abstain from political involvement and to remain focused on their primary duty of protecting the people.
In her remarks, the Executive Chairman commended CP Azare and his entourage for their visit, which she described as a reaffirmation of the commitment to public safety in Ikono. She reiterated her administration’s resolve to address key security challenges, including the overgrazing of farmland, a matter that not only affects the livelihoods of local farmers but also undermines community cohesion. Particular attention was drawn to the ITAK zone, where she requested that the sub-police station be fully operational and adequately manned to mitigate longstanding security concerns.
The event was well attended by prominent stakeholders and traditional leaders, including Vice Chairman (Hon.) John Bassey, Secretary Mr. Umo Bassey, Head of Service, Mrs. Eme Jimmy, Political Leader Mkpisong (Sir) Sunday Udo Akpan, Clan Head HRH Etebom Okon Udo Ekpo, Hon. Nyakno Okoibu, Chairman Nulge, Cmrd Esin Obop, as well as members of the press. In his closing remarks, the Head of Service, Mrs. Eme Jimmy, expressed gratitude to the Commissioner and his delegation for their visit, affirming that such engagements are instrumental in fostering an atmosphere of trust, security, and communal prosperity in Ikono.
As the Familiarity Visit drew to a close, both the Commissioner and the Executive Chairman reiterated their mutual commitment to strengthening security operations and enhancing the quality of life for all residents of Ikono LGA. This collaborative spirit stands as a testament to the leadership’s proactive approach to governance and the continual pursuit of peace and stability in the region.
— ATAUKO UYANGA, _Personal Assistant to the Executive Chairman, Ikono_