The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, has described the Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC) as a vital partner in intelligence gathering and grassroots security across Nigeria.
Disu made the remarks while receiving PCRC leaders during a courtesy visit to the Force Headquarters in Abuja, commending the committee for its decades-long support to the Nigeria Police Force.
In a statement issued by the PCRC Director of Global Communication and Media Relations, Olayemi Esan, the IGP noted that the committee has consistently provided both material and moral support to police formations nationwide, while playing a strategic role in crisis prevention through community-based intelligence.
“The PCRC has remained a very strong partner of the Nigeria Police. Your contributions to intelligence gathering and community policing cannot be overemphasised,” Disu said.
He also highlighted the committee’s role during periods of tension, recalling how its members, alongside retired police officers, helped maintain calm during a 10-day nationwide protest when he served as Commissioner of Police in Rivers State.
“In Rivers State, many expected chaos, but the state remained calm. That shows the strength of your grassroots network and commitment to peace,” he added.
The IGP further revealed a personal connection to the organisation, noting that his 90-year-old father is a life member of the PCRC, whose long-standing support for the police influenced his own understanding of community policing.
Disu assured the delegation that the Force Management Team recognises the importance of the PCRC and would ensure its members are accorded due respect by senior officers nationwide. He also encouraged closer collaboration to reduce bureaucracy and improve communication.
However, he warned against misuse of the committee’s identity, urging members to maintain integrity and avoid using PCRC affiliation for personal gain or unlawful activities.
Earlier, PCRC National Chairman, Ibrahim Olaniyan, said the visit was aimed at reaffirming the committee’s loyalty to the police and strengthening cooperation under Disu’s leadership.
Olaniyan disclosed that the PCRC, which will mark its 42nd anniversary on May 7, 2026, remains committed to supporting the police through humanitarian efforts, grassroots mobilisation, and intelligence gathering. He added that the committee has repaired three vehicles for the Force Headquarters and honoured 71 officers nationwide for outstanding service, with plans to recognise more officers during the anniversary.
He also announced a proposed partnership with the police to launch sensitisation programmes in schools aimed at addressing cultism and other anti-social behaviours among youths.
The PCRC continues to serve as a bridge between the police and local communities, supporting conflict prevention, intelligence gathering, and community-based security initiatives across the country.
