The Ningi community in Bauchi State has called for the deployment of more police personnel to enhance security in the area.

The district head of Ningi, Yusuf Danyaya, stated this at a stakeholders’ engagement forum on Thursday in Ningi.

The exercise was organised in collaboration between the Voluntary Aid Initiative, International Alert, and the UK Department for International Development.

Mr Danyaya said police outlets have been understaffed, a trend that negatively impacted community policing strategy.

“The understaffing of police stations in Ningi has significant implications for the safety and well-being of the community, leaving them vulnerable to criminal activities.

“We appeal to the authorities to address this critical shortage to ensure that police stations are adequately staffed to protect the community,” he said.

The chairman of Ningi Local Government Council, Nasiru Zakari, said urgent measures were necessary to address the manpower shortage of the police.

“The understaffing of police stations in Ningi is a serious security concern that requires immediate attention from the state and federal governments,” he said.

He urged the participants to make positive recommendations towards improving the security situation in the area.

Mr Zakari said the forum would strengthen synergy between security agencies and the community and enhance the security network.

Earlier, Zainab Hassan, programme officer of the organisation, said the forum would provide a platform for discussions and sharing of ideas on security concerns and expectations.

She said it would also identify challenges and foster greater understanding and empathy between the police and community members.

“The forum seeks to promote cooperation and partnership between the police and the community.

“This will improve community safety, reduce crimes, and forge a strong and positive relationship between law enforcement agencies and the community,” she said.

(NAN)