The newly appointed Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in charge of Okada Police Station, Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP) Ehimare Sunday, today paid a courtesy call on the Vice-Chancellor of Igbinedion University Okada (IUO), Prof. Lawrence Ikechukwu Ezemonye, PhD, FAS.
The visit, described by the DPO as a familiarization exercise following his recent assumption of office, underscored the importance of collaboration between security agencies and the academic community in Okada, a university town hosting Nigeria’s premier private university.
In his remarks during the meeting, CSP Ehimare Sunday emphasized the strategic significance of Okada as a university community. He stated that it was essential for the police leadership to engage directly with the university management to foster stronger ties. The DPO assured Prof. Ezemonye of the Nigeria Police Force’s unwavering commitment to protecting lives and property within the community, as well as ensuring the overall security and safety of students, staff, and residents.
“The university environment requires proactive and collaborative security measures,” CSP Ehimare noted. “We are here to build on existing partnerships and provide continued support to maintain peace and order in Okada and its environs.”
Responding to the visit, Vice-Chancellor Prof. Lawrence Ikechukwu Ezemonye warmly welcomed the new DPO and expressed appreciation for the gesture. He highlighted the long-standing positive relationship between Igbinedion University Okada and the Nigeria Police Force, which has consistently provided vital security support to both the institution and the host community over the years.
“Over the years, the university has enjoyed a strong and mutually beneficial relationship with the Nigeria Police Force,” Prof. Ezemonye said. “Their continued support has been instrumental in creating a safe and conducive environment for learning, research, and community life. We look forward to deepening this partnership under your leadership.”
The courtesy call reflects ongoing efforts to strengthen community policing and inter-agency cooperation in Edo State’s Ovia North-East Local Government Area, where Igbinedion University Okada is located. Such engagements are seen as key to addressing security challenges in university-hosting communities across Nigeria.
