Ugep, Cross River State — The Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in charge of Ugep Police Division, CSP I. E. Ayabotu, on Thursday met with principals of secondary schools in Ugep to discuss growing security concerns in schools and measures to protect students and teachers.
During the meeting, CSP Ayabotu urged school authorities to prioritise the safety and welfare of students and teachers while ensuring that students are treated fairly and are not subjected to any form of harassment.
He referenced recent reports of attempted pupil abductions in Oyo State and other parts of Nigeria, which were reportedly foiled by security operatives. He advised school principals to strengthen their security measures, particularly by properly verifying the identities of individuals who come to pick up students after school hours.
The police chief also emphasised the importance of collaboration between school authorities and the Police in preventing and addressing criminal activities among young people. He expressed concern over issues such as cultism, drug abuse and other social vices affecting secondary school students.
CSP Ayabotu assured the school heads that the Ugep Police Division would sustain routine visits to schools to sensitise teachers on crime prevention and their role in maintaining a safe learning environment.
He further encouraged school authorities to invite police officers to their schools for security awareness programmes, seminars and other sensitisation activities. To facilitate communication and prompt reporting of security concerns, he also shared his personal contact information with the principals.
Speaking on behalf of the school heads, Mr. Augustine Iwara of Ijiman Science Academy expressed appreciation to the DPO for convening the meeting and providing timely security advice. He pledged that schools in Ugep would remain vigilant and cooperate with the Police to safeguard students and teachers.
The meeting underscores the importance of cooperation between security agencies and educational institutions in promoting a safer environment for learning in Ugep.
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