Nigeria media practitioners, especially the Crime Reporters have been tasked to collaborate with law enforcement agencies and individuals in the task of riding the country of criminal elements.

The Olowu Kuta of Kuta, Osun State, HRH Oba Dr. Hammed Adekunle Makama Oyelude who made the call in Lagos, noted that the country is challenged by myraids of security challenges over the years.

Speaking at the Annual Lecture/Award ceremony of Crime Reporters Association of Nigeria (CRAN), held at Ikeja, however acknowledged the dedication of members of the Association in the discharge of their duties.

He also charged the media practitioners to be more dedicated, emphasising that the reward of more work is hard work.

His words, ” As you all know that our country is challenged by the myraids of security challenges over the years. I want to acknowledge what the Crime Reporters Association of Nigeria has been doing collectively and individually to report crime and follow to logical conclusion ; they should also know that the reward of hard work is more work.

“Towards this end, I will implore you that more than ever, you work with the law enforcement agencies and well-meaning individuals in order to rid the country of undesirable elements formenting trouble”.

Also, Minister of Women Affairs, Imaan Suleiman-Ibranim said the Federal Government has commended the efforts of the media in providing essential information and collaboration with the Nigeria Police Force in ensuring the safety of lives and property.

Speaking at the event, the Minister highlighted past and present efforts made by the media in supporting security agencies fight against crime.

According to her, the dedication of the media to responsible and informative reporting has been instrumental in shaping public perception and promoting a safer society.

“Your coverage of initiatives has not only helped to raise awareness about the importance of community involvement in crime prevention but has also provided a platform for us to share our message with a wider audience.

“We are grateful for your commitment to fact-based reporting, which has helped to build trust and credibility in our efforts.

“On behalf of the President and Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, I would like to extend my special thanks to the individual journalists and media outlets who have gone above and beyond to provide in-depth coverage of news and events which has kept us safe specially on the security turf.

“Your professionalism and passion for storytelling have been a source of inspiration to us all.

” I want to specially recognize all men and women of the Nigerian Police Force who are working tirelessly in protecting lives and properties” she stated.

She disclosed that the Ministry of Women Affairs, will continue to look forward to partnering the media in the fight against crime and ensuring a safer, more just society for all.

“The role of the media in crime reportage is multifaceted and crucial in shaping public perception and influencing societal responses to crime” she added.

In his opening address, The President of the Crime Reporters Association of Nigeria, CRAN, Olalekan Olabulo identified recidivism as a major threat to the fight against insecurity.

According to Olabulo, recidivism which he described as a hydra-headed monster has become a significant source of concern for security agents in Nigeria.

He said the fact that criminals and convicts are recycled, returning to a life of crime after being arrested and prosecuted, is a stark reminder of a failing system.

According to him, this has not only emboldened criminals but also discouraged security operatives, exposing them to grave dangers from unrepentant criminals.

In his words, many security agents have paid the ultimate price, killed, and others injured, after being identified by criminals who found their way out of correctional centres.

Olabulo said the criminals mobilised and attacked security operatives, who unknowingly found themselves in the midst of the criminal fray.

Olabulo noted that the scourge of recidivism has become a cancer, eating deep into the fabric of society, saying it is a ticking time bomb, waiting to unleash its deadly consequences on our collective security.

According to him, despite the discouragement, security agents remain resolute, committed to their duties, and deserving of commendation.

For the CRAN President, the time for rhetoric is over, it is time for action, so everyone need to support the security agents, by providing them with the necessary resources and protection to do their jobs effectively.

He called for the reformation of justice system to be responsive to the needs of the society, and ensure criminals are held accountable for their actions, saying the era of recycling criminals must end; it is time to put an end to recidivism.

The Lagos State Police Command was crowned Police Command of the Year at the 2024 Annual Lecture and Award Ceremony of the Crime Reporters Association of Nigeria (CRAN).

Under the leadership of Commissioner of Police Olanrewaju Ishola, the command was recognised for its exceptional crime-fighting achievements and innovative policing strategies.

The Assistant Inspector General of Police, Adegoke Fayoade, also received accolades for professional policing and integrity at the event.CRAN’s annual awards celebrate excellence in security and law enforcement, and the Lagos Command’s recognition underscores its pivotal role in ensuring safety and justice in Nigeria’s commercial hub.