The Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu, has vowed
to enforce strict discipline within the police force, declaring that no officer
will be protected from punishment if found guilty of misconduct.
Speaking during his inaugural conference with senior
police officers at the Peacekeeping Conference Centre, Force Headquarters in
Abuja, the IGP emphasized that there would be “no sacred cows” under his
leadership.
Disu stressed that respect for human rights remains a
core requirement for professional policing and is essential for maintaining
public confidence in the force. According to him, strengthening the rule of law
depends largely on how officers uphold these standards.
He announced plans to reinforce the force’s internal
accountability systems to ensure transparency and independence. Units such as
the Force Provost, the Complaint Response Unit, and the X-Squad will be
empowered to investigate cases of misconduct, abuse of authority, corruption,
and other unprofessional behavior without interference.
“The message must be clear: no officer is above the
law,” Disu said. He added that officers who violate the law will face swift
disciplinary measures, including dismissal and possible prosecution.
The police chief also encouraged citizens to report
any wrongdoing by officers, assuring them that complaints would be taken
seriously. He noted that loyalty to the force should never mean protecting
colleagues who engage in misconduct.
Highlighting the importance of public confidence, Disu
said the authority of the police does not come solely from legal statutes but
also from the trust of the people.
“The Nigerian Police Force exists to serve the people,
protect the nation, and uphold the rule of law,” he said, adding that
professionalism, accountability, and transparency will be the standard during
his tenure.
He further reminded officers that in an era of rapid
communication and public scrutiny, every action by a police officer reflects on
the entire force.
According to him, true authority in policing is best
demonstrated through restraint, fairness, and sound judgment, noting that while
the uniform gives officers legal power, it is their conduct that ultimately
earns legitimacy in the eyes of the public.
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