Governor Diri Approves Land for Police Zonal Headquarters

Bayelsa State Governor, Douye Diri, has approved the allocation of land to the Nigeria Police Zone 16 Command for the development of administrative and residential facilities.

The approval was given during a courtesy visit to the governor in Yenagoa by the new Assistant Inspector-General of Police (AIG), Johnson Adenola, along with the state’s Commissioner of Police, Francis Idu, and other senior officers.

In response to AIG Adenola’s request, Governor Diri directed the Ministry of Lands and Survey and the Secretary to the State Government to work with the police command to allocate a suitable parcel of land in Yenagoa.

He noted that having the zonal headquarters which oversees Bayelsa and Rivers states located in the state capital has significantly boosted security.

Diri acknowledged that the command has operated from a temporary facility for the past five years, provided by the state government, and emphasized the need for a permanent location.

He also commended AIG Adenola for recognizing key concerns, particularly about the excessive number of police roadblocks on highways.

“I’m pleased to hear you address the issue of frequent checkpoints. Every 50 metres there seems to be a roadblock, yet they do little to prevent crime. I’m hopeful your leadership will bring a change,” the governor said.

He urged security agencies to prioritize intelligence-based and non-violent methods of crime prevention, highlighting that his administration is leveraging technology such as CCTV systems and drones to enhance public safety.

“It’s better to prevent crime through surveillance and information than to rely solely on armed patrols,” Diri added.

In his remarks, AIG Adenola, who recently took office as the 11th AIG of Zone 16, thanked the governor for the support extended to the police and pledged his commitment to improving security across the state.

He assured Governor Diri of the command’s readiness to promote peace and lawfulness, stating, “We are working toward more effective and community-friendly policing that respects the rule of law.”