By Chukwudi Osuji
Imo State Commissioner of Police, CP Audu Garba Bosso has solicited continued support and collaboration of the youths towards sustaining the existing peace, safety and security in the state.
CP Bosso made the call on Thursday at a Police–Youth Dialogue forum held at the Senior Police Officers’ Mess, Owerri, an event organized in collaboration with the Imo State Ministry of Youth Development and Talent Hunt to commemorate International Youth Day 2026.
Speaking, the Imo police boss said the programme was organised pursuant to the directive of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, with the themed “Different Contexts, Common Aspirations,” aimed at strengthening partnership between the Police and young people in promoting peace, responsible citizenship and crime prevention in the state.
He urged the youths to embrace peace, shun cultism, drug abuse, violence and other forms of criminality, and work closely with the Police in preventing crime. He cautioned against taking the law into their own hands and encouraged members of the public to report suspicious activities through appropriate channels, stressing the message: “SEE SOMETHING, SAY SOMETHING.”
"I urge you and all the youths of Imo State to reject violence and criminality, embrace positive values, use social media responsibly, and work closely with the Police and other lawful authorities in safeguarding our communities." Bosso advised.
The CP appreciates all stakeholders, particularly the young people who participated actively in the dialogue, and reiterates its commitment to sustained Police–Youth engagement as part of efforts to prevent crime, promote peaceful coexistence and strengthen public confidence in policing.
Also, presenting their speeches on cultism and political thuggery, drug abuse, youth participation in crime prevention and the responsible use of social media, the Honourable Commissioner for Youth Development and Talent Hunt, Dr Emeka Mandela Ukaegbu; CPSO to the Governor, ACP Shaba Adamu; CEO, PAMTECH Group, Mr Chidomere Ndubisi; AC, XSQUAD, ACP Linus Nwaiwu; and the Special Adviser to the Governor on Electronics and New Media, Hon Ambrose Nwogwugwu also admonished the participants to resist manipulation and violence, support lawful crime-prevention efforts, and verify information before sharing it online, with the message: “THINK BEFORE YOU CLICK. VERIFY BEFORE YOU SHARE.”
A major highlight of the programme was an interactive Police–Youth Panel Discussion, which provided young people the opportunity to ask questions, raise concerns and contribute to discussions on policing, security and youth development.
The event also featured award presentations to some distinguished personalities in recognition of their exemplary leadership, community service, responsible citizenship and immense contributions to youth empowerment cum development.
The event had in attendance notable youth leaders and stakeholders in the state including the Honourable Commissioner for Homeland Security and Vigilante Affairs, Hon. Modestus Osakwe; Special Adviser to the Executive Governor on Youth Affairs, Hon. Eric Uwakwe; Imo State Director, Citizens Advocate for Peace is Possible in Nigeria, CAPIPIN, Comr. Collins Osuji and Chairman, National Youth Council of Nigeria, Comrade Humphery Osuji.
Others were representatives of the Police Community Relations Committee, Imo State Chapter, CLEEN Foundation, Stand For Humanity Foundation and Alliances for Africa, AfA among other government officials, youth leaders, student union leadership, social media influencers, civil society organisations, senior police officers and other stakeholders.
