By Peter Omopo
The Director-General of the Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR), Dr. Joseph Ochogwu, has called on Nigerians to respect and support security personnel, warning that assaults against them pose a serious threat to national peace and unity.
In a statement issued on Thursday, Ochogwu emphasized the essential role played by security agencies—including the police, military, Department of State Services (DSS), and the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC)—in safeguarding the country and maintaining law and order.
He described security personnel as “symbols of Nigeria’s sovereignty” and urged citizens to foster better cooperation with law enforcement.
Ochogwu condemned recent incidents involving the assault and killing of security operatives, noting that such attacks not only endanger public safety but also weaken the foundational values of the nation.
“On no condition should citizens attack security officials, whether they are in service or not, on duty or not,” he said. “They represent the symbol of our nationhood.”
The IPCR boss appealed for a collective commitment to peacebuilding and national cohesion, stressing that respect for security institutions is vital to the country’s stability.
