Inspector-General of Police Olatunji Disu has reaffirmed the Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC) as a crucial ally in intelligence gathering and grassroots security across Nigeria.
He made the remarks during a courtesy visit by the PCRC leadership to the Force Headquarters in Abuja, where he praised the committee’s decades-long support for the Nigeria Police Force.
In a statement issued by PCRC Director of Global Communication and Media Relations, Olayemi Esan, Disu acknowledged the committee’s consistent material and moral contributions to police formations nationwide. He stressed that the PCRC plays a strategic role in preventing crises through community-based intelligence.
“The PCRC has remained a very strong partner of the Nigerian Police. Your contributions to intelligence gathering and community policing cannot be overemphasised. You have consistently supported the police both materially and morally,” Disu said.
The IGP recalled his experience as Commissioner of Police in Rivers State, when the PCRC worked with retired officers to maintain calm during a 10-day nationwide protest. He explained that many had expected unrest, but the state remained peaceful due to the committee’s grassroots network and commitment to stability.
Disu also shared a personal connection to the organisation, noting that his 90-year-old father is a life member of the PCRC. He recounted how his father supported the police by repairing vehicles, providing fuel, and assisting officers. “At the time, I did not fully understand why he was so committed, but today I know the reason,” he said.
The police chief assured the PCRC leadership that the Force Management Team recognises the committee’s value. He pledged that Commissioners of Police, Area Commanders, and Divisional Police Officers nationwide would accord the organisation due recognition. Disu encouraged closer engagement between PCRC members and the Force Management Team to reduce bureaucracy and strengthen collaboration.
“Coming here is not just about seeing the IGP. It is also about knowing members of my management team. You should leave here with their phone numbers so we can reduce bureaucracy. If you have any challenge, feel free to reach out directly,” he advised.
However, Disu cautioned against the committee’s identity. He warned members to maintain integrity and avoid using PCRC affiliation for personal gain or unlawful acts. “We value every member of the PCRC who genuinely supports the police, but we must also be watchful of those who may want to use the identity of the organisation for the wrong reasons. No one should hide behind any identity card while doing what is wrong,” he said.
Earlier, PCRC National Chairman Alhaji Ibrahim Olaniyan reaffirmed the committee’s loyalty to the Nigeria Police Force. He described Disu as a “personal gift” to the organisation, noting his longstanding family ties to the committee. Olaniyan highlighted the PCRC’s commitment to complementing police efforts through humanitarian support, grassroots mobilisation, and intelligence gathering.
He disclosed that the PCRC, which will celebrate its 42nd anniversary on May 7, 2026, had repaired three vehicles for the Force Headquarters and honoured 71 police officers nationwide for exceptional service. Plans are underway to recognise nine additional junior officers during the anniversary.
Olaniyan also announced a new initiative targeting primary and secondary schools. The programme will focus on sensitisation campaigns to address rising cult-related and anti-social behaviour among youths. He emphasised that community advocacy and early intervention are essential to curbing these challenges.
The PCRC has long served as a bridge between the police and local communities. Its contributions include intelligence gathering, conflict prevention, and grassroots security initiatives. The committee also provides material assistance, repairs infrastructure, supports logistics, and mobilises communities during periods of tension.
Over the years, the PCRC has collaborated with police authorities during public unrest, helping to maintain calm through its nationwide network of stakeholders, professionals, and retired officers. Its role in strengthening trust between citizens and law enforcement remains central to Nigeria’s broader security framework.
By reaffirming the PCRC’s importance, the Inspector-General underscored the need for sustained collaboration between the police and community stakeholders. The partnership reflects a shared commitment to peace, accountability, and grassroots security, ensuring that policing in Nigeria remains inclusive and responsive to citizens’ needs.
