Student leaders of Moshood Abiola Polytechnic (MAPOLY), Abeokuta, have called for stronger collaboration with the Nigeria Police Force to improve security and protect students within and around the institution.
The Students’ Union Government (SUG), Students’ Representative Council (SRC) and National Association of Polytechnic Students (NAPS) executives made the call during a courtesy visit to the Elewe-Eran Police Zone on Monday.
The delegation was led by the SUG President, Comrade Opatumobi Boluwatife Joshua, popularly known as LUSH.
The visit, according to the student leaders, was aimed at strengthening relations between the student bodies and the police while exploring ways of addressing security challenges affecting students.
Receiving the delegation, the Deputy Superintendent of Police, Babaseyi Oluseyi, stressed the need for a cordial relationship between students and security agencies.
Babaseyi highlighted the importance of collaboration and the three Cs of Aluta, while proposing the organisation of a Student Security Summit to provide a platform for deeper engagement between students and security agencies.
He also assured the student leaders of his availability whenever formally invited to engage with the student community.
The police officer expressed concern over the shortage of student accommodation in several tertiary institutions across Ogun State, advising students to live in safe and secure environments close to their schools.
Also speaking, the Deputy Police Public Relations Officer, E.O. Oluborode, urged the SUG, SRC and NAPS leadership to partner with the police in sensitising students across institutions on the dangers of cultism, drug abuse and other social vices.
The meeting ended with both sides expressing commitment to promoting security awareness, peaceful coexistence and stronger cooperation between student leaders and security agencies.
The MAPOLY student leadership appreciated the Elewe-Eran Police Zone for its reception and expressed optimism that the engagement would lead to a sustained partnership focused on student safety and a more secure academic environment.
