In a proactive move to strengthen security and deepen civil-police collaborations, the Commissioner of Police, Kwara State Command, CP Adekimi Ojo, has visited the Kwara State University (KWASU) in Malete.
The visit was part of a broader effort to address recent security concerns around the university community, especially incidents of housebreaking and robbery within privately owned hostels.
Receiving the CP and his management team, the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Shaykh Luqman Alade Jimoh, expressed his appreciation for the enduring synergy between the institution and the police.
He specifically commended the professionalism of the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) Malete and his team in managing past crises and maintaining relative peace.
Prof. Shaykh Jimoh, while lamenting recent robbery cases affecting students off-campus, disclosed that the university has activated its internal security committee and implemented critical policy decisions aimed at strengthening security. Key highlights of the new measures include:
*A mandatory engagement of private security (vigilante) by all private hostel owners. Students will be advised to avoid hostels that fail to comply.
* Restriction of motorcycle (Okada) movement beyond *10:00 PM*, with violators risking the seizure of their motorcycles.
* All campus-based shops are to end all business activities at 11:00 PM; no business is allowed beyond this time.
* Students are restricted from using generators *beyond 12:00 AM*, as part of efforts to curb noise and improve safety.
The Vice Chancellor also appreciated the support of community leaders, acknowledging their role in fostering a secure learning environment.
In his response, CP Adekimi Ojo commended the university management for its proactive stance and well-structured policies. He assured the institution of increased police presence and support from the Divisional Headquarters to ensure full enforcement of the new regulations.
He also applauded the Students’ Union Government (SUG) for its cooperation and described student leaders as critical partners in peacebuilding efforts.
The CP further assured the university community that investigations into the recent robberies are ongoing, and that the command is committed to apprehending the culprits and restoring full confidence among residents.
In a strong reaffirmation of the Command’s adherence to human rights, CP Ojo emphasised that *searching of phones by policemen on the road/street is illegal*. He warned that such actions are not only unauthorised but also violate personal liberties.
He reiterated that due process and the law must always be followed in all investigations.
During his visit, the Police Boss inspected the hostel affected by the recent robbery incident, interacted with the students, and advised them on personal security and the importance of timely reporting.
He also met with members of the Community Policing Committee and the local vigilante at the Malete Divisional Headquarters, commending their gallantry, and pledged continuous support to boost their morale and operational capacity.
This visit marks another milestone in the ongoing collaboration between the Kwara State Police Command and institutions of learning to ensure a safe and conducive environment for academic excellence.