Betty Otimenyin’s Era Begins: Much Expected From Edo’s First Female Commissioner Of Police -By Isaac Asabor

The historic appointment of Betty Otimenyin as the first female Commissioner of Police (CP) in Edo State is a significant milestone, not just for the Nigeria Police Force but also for the state. Hailing from Edo herself, Otimenyin’s tenure comes with heightened expectations, given her familiarity with the state’s socio-political dynamics and peculiar crime challenges. Her declaration to tackle crime, extortion within the police ranks, and violence against women and children is commendable. However, beyond these pledges, the enormity of her assignment lies in addressing the menace of cultism, a deep-seated issue that plagues the state, especially among its youth.

Without a doubt, there is no denying the fact that cultism has literarily become a thorn in Edo’s flesh. Edo State has, over the years, gained notoriety for its cult-related violence. What began as a campus-specific problem among university students has spilled into streets, markets, and even villages. Cult groups like the Black Axe, Eiye, and Buccaneers, among others, have perpetuated a cycle of killings, kidnappings, and other forms of violence. These clashes have claimed countless lives and left communities in perpetual fear.

The recruitment of young people into cults is particularly alarming. Unemployed youths, secondary school students, and even artisans are drawn into these groups, often lured by promises of power, protection, and belonging. For many, cultism becomes an escape from economic hardship and societal neglect, creating a vicious cycle that entrenches crime in the state.

Betty Otimenyin must recognize that cultism is not just a criminal problem but also a socio-cultural one. Tackling it requires a multi-faceted approach that combines effective policing with community engagement, youth empowerment, and reorientation programs.

In fact, the involvement of youths in cult activities highlights the urgent need for preventive measures targeting this demographic. Otimenyin’s administration should focus on areas that cut across community-based policing, youth outreach and education, rehabilitation programs, and partnership with NGOs and civil society.

Explanatorily put, cultism thrives in communities where law enforcement is weak or non-existent. Therefore, establishing a robust community policing framework can help bridge the gap between the police and residents. Regular patrols, intelligence gathering, and fostering trust between law enforcement and the community are critical.

Concerning youth outreach and education, the CP should collaborate with schools, religious institutions, and local leaders to educate young people about the dangers of cultism. Awareness campaigns, workshops, and youth-focused programs can help steer potential recruits away from these groups.

In terms of rehabilitation programs, for youths already entangled in cultism, offering a path to rehabilitation is vital. Skills acquisition programs, counseling, and job opportunities can help reintegrate them into society as productive members.

Regarding partnership with NGOs and civil society, it is expedient to recall that they have been instrumental in addressing youth-related issues in Edo. Otimenyin should leverage their expertise and networks to implement programs that address the root causes of cultism.

Again, it is not a misnomer to opine that Edo has been facing policing challenges. Therefore, it will not be wrong to contextually say that the task ahead for the new CP is daunting. This is as cultism is only one aspect of the broader crime challenges in Edo. The state also grapples with kidnapping, armed robbery, and human trafficking. Betty Otimenyin’s ability to reduce the prevalence of these crimes will depend on her capacity to reform and motivate her officers, ensure proper training, and adopt modern policing methods.

Her statement about addressing extortion within the police force is a step in the right direction. Public confidence in the police has been eroded over the years due to allegations of bribery, misconduct, and a lack of professionalism. Cleaning up the police ranks will not only improve morale among officers but also rebuild trust with the public.

To accomplish her mission in Edo, it is germane for her to leverage technology and intelligence as modern crime-fighting strategies rely heavily on technology and intelligence. Therefore, Betty Otimenyin should prioritize the adoption of digital tools to track and combat criminal activities. Surveillance systems, crime mapping, and data analysis can significantly enhance the effectiveness of the police force.

Furthermore, collaboration with the Force Intelligence Department (FID), where she previously served, could give her administration a strategic advantage in dealing with organized crime, including cultism. Leveraging intelligence to preempt and prevent criminal activities should be a cornerstone of her approach.

In fact, Betty Otimenyin’s commitment to addressing violence against women and children is particularly laudable. Gender-based violence is a pervasive issue in Edo and across Nigeria. Her tenure presents an opportunity to enforce existing laws and advocate for stronger protections for vulnerable groups.

The CP should work closely with women’s groups, legal practitioners, and social workers to ensure that cases of domestic violence, sexual assault, and child abuse are prosecuted swiftly and decisively. Establishing dedicated units within the command to handle such cases can also improve outcomes and provide victims with the support they need.

While the police are at the forefront of crime-fighting, the role of the state government cannot be overstated. Governor Monday Okpebholo’s administration must provide the necessary support in terms of funding, equipment, and infrastructure. The state government should also invest in social programs that address the underlying causes of crime, such as poverty, unemployment, and lack of education.

The state’s traditional rulers and community leaders also have a role to play. As custodians of culture and local authority figures, they can help mediate conflicts, discourage youth involvement in crime, and support the police in intelligence gathering.

As the first female Commissioner of Police in Edo, Betty Otimenyin’s appointment is both symbolic and substantive. It signifies a break from tradition and an opportunity for a fresh approach to policing in the state. Her success will depend on her ability to inspire her officers, collaborate with stakeholders, and deliver tangible results.

The people of Edo are looking to her to restore peace and security to their communities. The task is immense, but so is the potential for positive change. If Betty Otimenyin can prioritize the fight against cultism, rebuild public trust in the police, and address the broader crime challenges in the state, her legacy will be one of transformation and progress.

Betty Otimenyin’s tenure as Commissioner of Police in Edo is a chance to rewrite the state’s security narrative. With a proactive, inclusive, and strategic approach, she can make Edo a safer place for all its residents. The expectations are high, but so too is the belief in her capacity to deliver. The people of Edo are watching, and they are hopeful. Now is the time for her to rise to the occasion and prove that change is possible, even in the most challenging circumstances.