On October 17, 2025, the Grace Agbonlahor Foundation (GAF) joined other stakeholders at the State Level Consultative Forum on Achieving Inclusive Police Reform in Edo State, held at Golden Tulip Essential Hotel, Benin City.
The forum was organised by the Edo State Administration of Criminal Justice Monitoring Committee (ACJMC) in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Police Reform Secretariat. It brought together civil society groups, traditional leaders, youth representatives, women’s groups, and security agencies to discuss practical ways to make policing in Edo State more inclusive and people-centred.
Fostering Trust and Accountability
Discussions focused on building trust between citizens and the police, promoting human rights, and improving access to justice. The representative of the Inspector General of Police, CP Eloho Okpoziakpo, noted that “the future of policing must reflect inclusivity, human rights, and citizen participation in building safer communities.”
Participants shared ideas and identified strategies for reform, including:
- Expanding access to legal aid for vulnerable groups
- Strengthening gender inclusion within law enforcement structures
- Promoting continuous dialogue between communities and the police
- Enhancing accountability mechanisms to rebuild public confidence
GAF’s Role and Commitment
For GAF, the forum reaffirmed our commitment to justice, inclusion, and community empowerment. These values are central to our Advocacy for Equality priority. Our participation reflected our belief that safety and justice are strengthened when citizens play an active role in shaping solutions.
As an organisation dedicated to helping women and girls lift, lead, and thrive, GAF recognises that fair and inclusive policing is essential to protecting their rights and creating safer communities for everyone.
Looking Ahead
The session concluded with a shared understanding that inclusive police reform is a collective responsibility. GAF remains committed to supporting community-based justice initiatives and working with partners such as the ACJMC and UNDP to make sure that police reforms are inclusive, fair, and sustainable.
Together, we can reimagine policing that listens to citizens, protects lives, and upholds dignity for all.
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