By Damilare Adeleye
IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Inspector-General of Police, has charged Police Complaint Response Units to build robust public trust by curbing excessiveness, unprofessionalism and corruption among police personnel in the country.
The IGP said this when he hosted a conference with key officers responsible for the internal control mechanisms of the Nigeria Police Force on Friday, 31st May at the Force Headquarters, Abuja.
According to a statement issued by ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the Force Public Relations Officer, the meeting brought together the Officers in charge of the X-Squads, the Head of the Inspector-General of Police Monitoring Unit, and the Heads of Police Complaint Response Units from across the Federation.
He said the units play a fundamental role in monitoring and curbing excesses within the Force, as well as investigating public complaints against police officers.
“The IGP emphasized the importance of maintaining internal order, promoting discipline, and encouraging positive conduct in all forms as the importance of discipline, the foundation of the Nigeria Police Force, cannot be overstated. He also maintained the imperativeness of striving to ensure professionalism and adherence to the core values and dignity of the Nigeria Police Force by all standards stressing the role of these units in maintaining the professional status and pivotal role of the NPF in the country’s internal security.
“One of the primary goals highlighted by the IGP was to bridge the trust deficit between the Force and the public. He acknowledged the concerning behavior of some personnel and directed immediate action to ensure the prompt dispensation of justice and implementation of measures to curb excessiveness, highhandedness, unprofessionalism, corruption, and other vices among police personnel. IGP Egbetokun also stressed the importance of recognizing exemplary performances within the Force, urging the officers to make necessary recommendations for personnel who demonstrate acts of courage, integrity, and humanity.
“Furthermore, IGP Egbetokun called on the public to support the Force’s efforts to eliminate extortion and other misconduct urging citizens to report any infractions or acts of misconduct by police personnel for appropriate remedial measures. He also encouraged all officers to remain steadfast and committed to the Force’s aspirations, working consciously to reclaim the public’s confidence and trust,” Adejobi added.