By Jane Okafor, Abuja
The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Olatunji Disu, has urged police officers to rise above the current challenges facing the Force, stressing that rank and connections will not shield anyone from wrongdoing under his watch.
The IGP, who acknowledged the risks and responsibilities officers face daily, charged them to maintain a high level of credibility in the discharge of their duties.
Speaking at the second edition of the National Police Day grand parade and procession, the IGP said, “To the officers and men of the Nigeria Police Force across our country, I speak to you today not just as your inspector-general, but as one of you. I know the risks you take. I know the sacrifices you make. I know the pressures you face.
“I salute your courage. I recognise your dedication. But I must also speak with clarity, because this moment demands honesty: The Nigeria Police Force must rise. We must rise above indiscipline. We must rise above misconduct. We must rise above every action that diminishes the honour of this uniform.
“Let me be unequivocal: Rank will not shield wrongdoing. Uniform will never excuse abuse. Authority will never override the rule of law. There will be no sacred cows. Accountability under my leadership will be firm, fair and without exception. And let me say this with equal clarity: This leadership will stand firmly with every officer who does what is right. We will improve your welfare. We will strengthen your capacity. We will equip you properly. Because a respected and professional Police Force must be built on officers who are supported, trained and treated with dignity,” he said.
The IGP, however, urged Nigerians to be patient with the Police Force as it undergoes reforms aimed at building a better policing system.
Disu said, “To the Nigerian people, I speak today not with promises, but with commitment. We hear you. We understand your concerns. We acknowledge the distance that has grown between the police and the people. We are determined to close that gap. You will see a Police Force that is more accountable, more professional, more disciplined, and more human. A Police Force that does not intimidate but protects. That does not alienate but partners. That does not instil fear but earns respect. We will not stand above you. We will stand with you.
“Policing in the 21st Century must evolve and we will evolve deliberately. We are already moving. We have launched new mechanisms for internal discipline and public accountability. We are investing in training, technology, and community engagement. These are not future plans. They are actions in motion today.
“We are building a Police Force that is intelligence-led, technology-driven, and community-focused. We will strengthen our investigative capacity, modernise our operations, and deploy innovation to combat modern crime. Our actions will be guided not by force alone, but by intelligence, professionalism, and respect for human rights,” he said.
