By John Dike, Osogbo
Osun State Commissioner of Police Ibrahim Gotan, has reiterated the urgent need for improved logistical support for security agencies, warning that inadequate operational tools could undermine ongoing efforts to combat crime and maintain public safety across the state.
Speaking with our correspondent, he emphasised that modern policing requires not only manpower but also sufficient mobility, communication tools, and intelligence-gathering equipment to effectively tackle evolving security challenges.
Gotan made the call while reacting to the recent donation of 300 motorcycles to security agencies by local government chairmen in the state, describing the initiative as a significant boost to grassroots policing and community-based security operations.
According to him, the intervention comes at a critical time when security agencies are intensifying efforts to improve response time and expand their presence, particularly in rural and hard-to-reach communities.
“This donation is not only timely but also strategic. The availability of motorcycles will greatly enhance patrol operations, improve access to remote areas, and strengthen our rapid response capabilities,” Gotan stated.
He explained that one of the major limitations facing law enforcement agencies is inadequate mobility, which often delays response to distress calls and limits the ability of officers to effectively cover large geographical areas.
The police commissioner stressed that the provision of operational vehicles, motorcycles, communication gadgets, and other essential logistics remains fundamental to crime prevention and detection.
“Effective policing is largely dependent on mobility and intelligence. Without adequate logistics, it becomes difficult to respond swiftly to incidents or sustain proactive patrols. Criminal elements often take advantage of gaps created by poor access and delayed intervention,”
Gotan further called on corporate organisations, private sector stakeholders, traditional institutions, and well-meaning individuals to partner with the police and other security agencies by providing support in the form of equipment, infrastructure, and technological resources.
He maintained that security is a collective responsibility that requires active participation from all segments of society.
“Security should not be seen as the sole responsibility of security agencies. It is a shared duty. We need the support of everyone—government at all levels, the private sector, and the general public to build a safer society,” he added.
The police boss assured that all resources and support received by the command would be judiciously utilised, noting that transparency, accountability, and professionalism would guide their deployment.
He also reaffirmed the command’s commitment to community policing, describing it as a critical strategy in addressing security challenges through collaboration with residents.
Gotan urged members of the public to remain vigilant and proactive by sharing credible intelligence with security agencies, stressing that timely information plays a crucial role in preventing crime.
“Information is key to effective policing. We encourage residents to report suspicious movements and activities promptly. When the public and the police work together, it becomes easier to prevent crime before it occurs,” he said.
While acknowledging that Osun State has continued to enjoy relative peace compared to some other parts of the country, the commissioner warned against complacency, noting that security threats can evolve if not properly managed.
He assured residents that the police command, in collaboration with other security agencies, remains fully committed to sustaining the peaceful atmosphere and protecting lives and property.
“We are not relenting in our efforts. Our officers are being repositioned, our strategies are being strengthened, and we are working closely with other security stakeholders to ensure that Osun remains safe for all,” Gotan assured.
The CP further noted that investments in security would ultimately translate into economic growth and social stability, as a secure environment encourages business activities, attracts investors, and improves the overall quality of life for residents.
The donation of motorcycles, he added, is expected to significantly improve patrol efficiency, particularly in communities with difficult terrain where conventional vehicles may not be effective.
Residents and stakeholders have since lauded the initiative, describing it as a step in the right direction toward enhancing security at the grassroots level.
