By Chinelo Ogbodo (Enugu State Correspondent)
The Commissioner of Police, Enugu State Command, CP Mamman Bitrus Giwa, has reiterated the importance of vigilance, collective responsibility, and faith in safeguarding the church community, its property, and divine purpose.
He stated this while delivering a lecture on "Safeguarding the Church Community, Property, and Purpose Through Vigilance and Faith", at the Anglican Diocese of Enugu Security Awareness Seminar held at Christ Anglican Church, Uwani, Enugu.
Represented at the event by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Daniel Ndukwe, the Commissioner emphasized that churches, as centres of worship and community life, must adopt both spiritual and practical security measures to remain safe and resilient. Drawing from the biblical charge in Matthew 26:41 to “watch and pray,” he noted that effective security requires a blend of faith, vigilance, and shared responsibility among members.
Addressing participants made up members of the Diocese's Security Network, the CP highlighted critical areas requiring attention, including the protection of congregants, particularly vulnerable persons, the safeguarding of church assets, and the preservation of the Church’s core mission of worship, evangelism, and service.
He stressed the need for heightened vigilance during services, proper monitoring of church facilities, and improved accountability in resource management.
The Police Commissioner further urged participants to sustain close collaboration with the Police and other security agencies by providing timely and credible information, while also strengthening internal structures that promote safety, orderliness, and unity within their congregations.
Reaffirming the Command’s commitment to proactive, intelligence-driven, and community-based policing, CP Giwa called on residents to remain law-abiding, security-conscious, and supportive of ongoing efforts to maintain peace and public safety in Enugu State.
The lecture forms part of broader initiatives aimed at engaging critical stakeholders in building a safer and more secure society. NNL.
