Police Leadership Emphasizes Accountability and Professionalism
The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, has issued a strong warning to officers of the Nigeria Police Force regarding misconduct and abuse of power, declaring that the age of impunity within the force has come to an end. This message was conveyed during his visit to the Edo State Police Command in Benin City, where he encouraged officers to adopt a more professional approach in their duties to help restore public confidence in law enforcement.
Encouraging Officers to Reflect on Public Perception
During his address, Disu prompted officers to consider their satisfaction with the current public perception of the police force. He emphasized that, with collective effort, the Nigeria Police Force has the potential to become one of the leading law enforcement agencies in Africa and beyond. His message was clear: the officers possess the capabilities to achieve this goal, and they must actively work toward it.
Direct Engagement and Expectations from Officers
Disu expressed his intent to engage with the officers on a personal level, stating, “I’m here to talk to you one-on-one. I want you to at least meet me physically.” He highlighted the objectives of his administration, outlining the expectations placed upon the officers and urging them to strive for excellence. He asked them to reflect on their own contentment with the force’s current status and instilled a belief that they could be the best.
Addressing Recent Incidents of Misconduct
In light of recent troubling incidents involving police personnel in Delta State and Port Harcourt, Disu criticized the conduct of those officers, calling it “shameful” and detrimental to the image of the Nigeria Police Force. He specifically referenced an event in Delta State where an Assistant Superintendent of Police allegedly fatally shot a suspect who had already been apprehended. Such behavior must be met with accountability, he asserted, as those responsible have already faced disciplinary action.
Investigations and Consequences for Corrupt Practices
Disu also highlighted additional cases involving certain officers engaged in corrupt practices, such as using police vehicles to carry out illegal arrests and extorting money through ATM withdrawals from victims. He confirmed that these cases have been thoroughly investigated, leading to disciplinary recommendations, including dismissal. The relevant case files have been submitted to the Director of Public Prosecutions for further legal action.
A Call for Reform and Cooperation
The Inspector-General reiterated that the era of impunity in the Nigeria Police Force is finished. He called upon all officers to work together toward establishing a more professional and community-friendly police force. “I cannot do it alone; we have to build a new Nigeria Police Force together,” he stated, urging officers to commit to reform and improve their conduct.
Local Command Sees Progress, Requests Resources
During the event, the Edo State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Monday Agbonika, expressed gratitude for the IGP’s visit and acknowledged the significant progress made in crime reduction through collaboration with other security agencies. However, he also appealed for additional operational resources to further enhance their capability to combat crime and maintain security across Edo State.
