…As police adopts five minutes response to distress call
The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command and the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), FCT Council on Monday, November 17, 2025, resolved to collaborate for the promotion of peace, security and development of the nation’s capital.
This was as the FCT Police command specifically assured of a media engagement and proactive information sharing during emergencies or crises, to avoid misinformation or the need for rejoinders.
The new understanding was reached when the leadership of the NUJ, FCT Council, paid a courtesy visit to the Commissioner of Police, CP Miller Dantawaye, during which the Chairman of the NUJ, Comrade Grace Ike reiterated the commitment of the union to a productive partnership with the police.
The NUJ, FCT boss said that a strong partnership and collaboration between the police and the media would help boost public trust and safeguard democracy.
Ike said; “We are here not just to say welcome, but to reaffirm our support for a working relationship that promotes transparency, responsible journalism and security in the FCT. “The NUJ recognises the critical role the Nigeria Police Force plays in maintaining peace, security, and the rule of law in the nation’s capital,” she said.
Ike assured that the NUJ, being the umbrella body for all media practitioners, was committed to fostering a conducive environment where journalists can operate freely without fear of intimidation, harassment or threats, either online or offline.
According to the NUJ chairman; “We have zero tolerance for the intimidation or harassment of journalists. But, we also promote ethical and responsible journalism because misinformation can be dangerous. Where one journalist’s responsibility ends, another begins. Journalists must be accountable for whatever they put out to the public,” she enthused.
Speaking in turn, the FCT Commissioner of Police, CP Miller Dantawaye, acknowledged that the media plays a crucial role in shaping public perception and supporting the work of security agencies.
Dantawaye said; “We need you more than you need us. With your reportage, you can project our efforts, and you can also condemn us if we fail. That is why synergy is not optional; it is a necessity.
The FCT police boss therefore appealed to journalists to support the police in encouraging citizens to obey the law, register their vehicles, and avoid preventable conflicts with security operatives.
Dantawaye said the FCT Command has adopted swift response strategies to improve security in the FCT, particularly in tackling ‘one chance’ criminal syndicates.
He said; “Our response time has improved significantly. We aim to respond to distress calls within five minutes whenever possible. We have dismantled four different ‘one chance syndicates’ already, and we will continue to tackle crime with the full weight of the law”.
The Commissioner appealed to residents to always provide needed intelligence to the police, emphasising that security is a collective responsibility.
Dantawaye said; “We are not magicians. Everyone in Abuja must become a partner in policing by reporting suspicious activities. If you see something, say something”.
The CP assured that his administration would maintain an open-door policy and foster a seamless relationship with journalists.
In his words; “When you invite us, we will come. When we invite you, please join us. Our faces should be seen at each other’s programmes. security and journalists must work hand in hand,” he said.
Senior Police Officers present during the visit, included; Lawrence Iwodi, Zanna K. Maidugu and Lamudo Alkali and Josephine Adeh,
