Police seek NUJ partnership to rebuild public confidence

The Nigeria Police Force has appealed to journalists for closer collaboration in order to restore and strengthen public trust in law enforcement.

Force Public Relations Officer (FPRO), CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, made the call during a courtesy visit to the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ).

Hundeyin noted that policing is heavily dependent on information and intelligence from the public, stressing that negative narratives erode confidence and undermine police operations.

“When the public loses trust, they stop volunteering vital tips. That is when policing becomes more difficult,” he said.

He, however, clarified that the call was not an attempt to gag the press but an invitation to foster balanced and responsible reporting that supports national security.

Hundeyin further assured the NUJ that any complaints of harassment or obstruction of journalists in the course of their duties would be addressed swiftly and fairly.

Responding, the NUJ FCT Chairman, Comrade Grace Ike, welcomed the visit, describing it as a sign of commitment to dialogue by the Police.

“We are ready to partner with you,” Ike affirmed, adding that the relationship must be anchored on trust and mutual respect to effectively combat misinformation.

She reiterated the Union’s opposition to harassment or intimidation of journalists, stressing that press freedom is a constitutional right that must not be compromised.

Other council members, including Secretary Comrade Jide Oyekunle, joined in receiving the Police spokesman.