IGP visits Awolowos, say kidnapping cases over-rated

The Inspector-General of Police, IGP, Solomon Arase, yesterday in Ikenne, Ogun State, said kidnapping cases in the country are over-rated by citizens. Arase, who spoke shortly after paying condolence visit to the Awolowo family over the death of their matriarch,HID Awolowo, said statistics show that kidnapping in Nigeria was still within manageable level compared to what is happening in other countries. He explained that Nigerians dwell more on negative aspect than successes recorded so far on the menace. He however, assured that the Nigeria Police Force would do its best to reduce the rising cases of kidnapping across the country. He said; “Let me debunk the impression that there has been tremendous increase in the issue of kidnapping in Nigeria. Kidnapping has been there and we are doing our best to stem the tide. “Comparative figure outside Nigeria shows that ours is still within manageable level. Whenever it happens, we are able to arrest them and deal with them. “Criminals can’t overwhelm Nigerians. Definitely, it will not happen under leadership. We should not get apprehensive about this. I can assure Nigerians that we are on top of the situation and will make sure that we have a secure environment.” In his condolence, Arase described the late Awolowo as a definition of everything that a woman is supposed to be. “She stood by Papa Awolowo all through his life and even when he passed on. She protected his ideals and was there for the children. She ensured that the family remain united, that is why everyone is celebrating her. She is a woman of virtue.” He assured the family that the police would deplore his men and officers for a successful funeral activities of their matriarch. Also, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Pastor Enoch Adeboye, who paid a condolence, described Mama Awolowo as one of the greatest women Nigeria had ever produced. He said “We thank God, she started well and departed well. We pray that all women will emulate her. By the grace of God, we will all end well.”