As part of effort to foster a stronger working relationship between the media and the police, the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Sapele Correspondents' Chapel, has pledged continued support to the Sapele Division of the Nigeria Police Force. This strategic alliance aims to enhance effective and accurate reportage of police activities in the area.
The initiative was championed by the Chairman of the NUJ Sapele Chapel, Comrade Nelson Agbajor, during a courtesy visit to the newly posted Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Sapele Division, CSP Obioguru Johnbull. The visit served as a platform to establish mutual understanding and set the tone for a collaborative working relationship.
However, Comrade Agbajor emphasized the vital role of the media in shaping public perception of security operations and called for accurate, verified reporting to combat misinformation. “Journalists must investigate and confirm the authenticity of information before publication,” he noted, reiterating NUJ’s commitment to a strategic partnership with the police.
He praised CSP Johnbull for the swift transformation of the Sapele Police Division through ongoing renovations of the administrative block, detention facilities, and DPO residence, as well as the installation of CCTV cameras. He also lauded the DPO’s collaboration with Seplat Energy for the proposed interlocking of the entire premises.
“What CSP Obioguru Johnbull has achieved in such a short time is remarkable. His efforts are not just infrastructural, but also in redefining the image of the police in Sapele,” Agbajor said.
Responding, CSP Johnbull expressed gratitude for the visit and acknowledged the media as a critical stakeholder in promoting public trust and transparency in policing. “The police cannot work in isolation. We rely on the media to inform the public and support our crime-fighting efforts,” he stated.
Nevertheless, the DPO assured the journalists of his division’s readiness to maintain peace and protect lives and property in Sapele. He also disclosed ongoing efforts to apprehend those responsible for recent church burglaries, noting that nightly patrols and collaboration with religious organizations are underway to ensure safety.
CSP Johnbull called on residents to support the police with timely and credible information, stating, “Security is a collective responsibility. With the media, churches, and community working together, we can make Sapele safer.”
This renewed media-police partnership signals a new chapter in community engagement, transparency, and trust building in Sapele, as both institutions commit to working hand-in-hand for the greater good.
The visit was well attended by a large number of members of the NUJ and top management officers of the Nigeria Police, Sapele Division.
Nelson Agbajor
A Media Commentator and
Public Affairs Analyst
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27/05/2025
