By Ebiere Kekeboro
The Oodua Youth Parliament (OYP) has passed a vote of confidence on the leadership of the Imo State Police Command, citing what it described as improved operational outcomes in the fight against kidnapping and violent crime across the state.
In a statement issued on December 24, the Parliament said the renewed public attention on the Imo Police Command follows a series of intelligence-driven operations under the leadership of the Commissioner of Police, Aboki Danjuma, with particular focus on the Anti-Kidnapping Unit, popularly known as Tiger Base, headed by Assistant Commissioner of Police, Oladimeji Adeyeyiwa.
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According to OYP, the command has in recent months recorded notable successes, including the arrest of suspected kidnappers and armed criminals, the recovery of firearms such as AK-47 rifles, pump-action guns and ammunition, and the rescue of victims in different parts of the state.
The Parliament noted that the operations have disrupted criminal networks operating along major highways and in rural communities, especially in Owerri West, Ngor-Okpala, the Orlu axis and parts of Okigwe, areas previously affected by frequent abductions and violent attacks.
OYP said the Anti-Kidnapping Unit, under Adeyeyiwa’s leadership, has been credited with coordinating high-risk raids, rescue missions and manhunts for fleeing suspects, often in collaboration with other security agencies and local intelligence sources.
However, the group acknowledged that the intensified operations have also generated public debate, following allegations on social media accusing some operatives of human rights violations. It stressed that the concerns highlight the need to balance aggressive crime-fighting with strict adherence to the rule of law and respect for fundamental rights.
The Parliament welcomed the decision by CP Danjuma to establish a Human Rights Desk within the Anti-Kidnapping Unit, describing it as a proactive step towards strengthening accountability, protecting suspects’ rights and aligning police operations with constitutional standards.
OYP also drew attention to ongoing investigations into suspected kidnappers’ hideouts recently uncovered in parts of Owerri West Local Government Area, where a decomposed body believed to be that of an abducted victim was recovered. The development, it said, underscores the complexity and risks associated with tackling organised crime.
The Parliament further acknowledged the recent promotion of Adeyeyiwa to the rank of Assistant Commissioner of Police, noting that police authorities described the elevation as recognition of his operational performance and commitment to combating violent crime.
While commending the Imo State Police Command for its efforts to restore public safety, OYP called for sustained transparency, independent oversight and continuous engagement with civil society to ensure that security operations retain public trust.
It also urged residents of the state to cooperate with law enforcement agencies by providing credible intelligence, stressing that security is a shared responsibility.
“The fight against kidnapping and violent crime must be firm, lawful and people-centred. Security and accountability must go hand in hand,” the statement concluded.