Kwara State Police Commissioner Adekimi Ojo has reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring campus safety at Kwara State University (KWASU), Malete, during an official visit to the institution. He endorsed new security measures introduced by stakeholders in the Malete community and university management to curb rising crime on campus.

The measures include movement restrictions for community residents, aimed at reducing robberies targeting student hostels a concern highlighted by DAILY POST in earlier reports. These restrictions were implemented following persistent incidents of theft and insecurity in the area.

Commissioner Ojo pledged collaboration with KWASU's administration to enhance surveillance, patrols, and emergency response protocols, stating: "Campus safety is a priority. We will work with all stakeholders to create a secure environment for students and staff."

The state police commissioner, in a proactive move to strengthen security and deepen civil-police collaboration, visited the university in Malete.

The visit, according to the spokesperson of the Kwara State Police Command, SP Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, in Ilorin on Tuesday, was part of a broader effort to address recent security concerns around the university community, especially incidences of housebreaking and robbery within privately owned hostels.

Receiving the Commissioner of Police, the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Shaykh Luqman Alade Jimoh, expressed his appreciation for the enduring synergy between the institution and the police.

He specifically commended the professionalism of the Divisional Police Officer in Malete, and his team in managing past crises and maintaining relative peace.

Prof. Jimoh, while lamenting recent robbery cases affecting off-campus students, disclosed that the university has activated its internal security committee and implemented critical policy decisions aimed at strengthening security.

Key highlights of the new measures include a mandatory engagement of private security (vigilante) personnel by all private hostel owners, while students will be advised to avoid hostels that fail to comply.

Also, the new regime includes a restriction on motorcycle (Okada) movement beyond 10 pm, with violators risking the seizure of their motorcycles. All campus-based shops are to cease business activities by 11 pm, with no commercial activity permitted beyond that hour.

Similarly, students are restricted from using generators beyond 12 am, as part of efforts to reduce noise and enhance safety.

The Vice Chancellor also appreciated the support of community leaders, acknowledging their role in fostering a secure learning environment.

In his response, Adekimi Ojo commended the university management for its proactive stance and well-structured policies.

He assured the institution of increased police presence and support from the Divisional Headquarters to ensure full enforcement of the new regulations.

Ojo also applauded the Students' Union Government for its cooperation and described student leaders as critical partners in peacebuilding efforts.

Commissioner of Police Ojo further assured the university community that investigations into the recent robberies are ongoing, and that the command is committed to apprehending the culprits and restoring full confidence among residents.

In a strong reaffirmation of the command's adherence to human rights, Ojo emphasised that searching of phones by policemen on the road or street is illegal, and warned that such actions are not only unauthorised but also violate personal liberties.

During his visit, the Commissioner of Police inspected the hostel affected by the recent robbery incident, interacted with the students, and advised them on personal security and the importance of timely reporting.