IGP Warns Police Officers Against Partisanship …Directs Regular Engagement With Journalists

The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, has warned officers of the Nigeria Police Force against engaging in partisan political activities, insisting that the Force would remain neutral before, during and after the 2027 general elections.

The IGP gave the directive during a strategic meeting with senior police officers, including Deputy Inspectors-General of Police, Assistant Inspectors- General of Police and Commissioners of Police, at the Force Headquarters, Abuja, last Wednesday.

He told the officers across the country to maintain regular interactions with journalists as part of efforts to tackle misinformation and fake news ahead of the elections.

He said sustained engagement with the media would strengthen public communication, promote transparency and help curb the spread of misleading information capable of undermining public confidence in the electoral process.

Disu assured that the Nigeria Police Force would not allow itself to be used by politicians or political parties, saying the Force remains committed to providing a level playing field for all participants in the electoral process.

“We will remain neutral, ensure the safety and security of the electorate before, during and after the election,” he said.

The Police Chief warned that any police officer found participating in partisan politics would face appropriate disciplinary and legal consequences.

On the protection of citizens’ rights, the IGP charged Commissioners of Police to ensure that all reported cases of human rights violations are properly documented, investigated and resolved within a reasonable period.

He also directed police commands and zones across the country to establish accessible and visible Complaints Response Units to enable members of the public report alleged abuses and obtain appropriate redress.

Disu emphasized the need to improve the welfare of police personnel, directing Commissioners of Police to ensure prompt payment of death benefits to families of fallen officers and personally visit such families to demonstrate the Force’s support and solidarity.

He highlighted some of the achievements recorded by the Force but maintained that more efforts were required to address prevailing security challenges, particularly banditry in parts of the country.

He also cautioned Commissioners of Police against travelling outside their respective states without obtaining express approval from his office.

The IGP thanked President Bola Tinubu for his continued support and commitment to strengthening the capacity of the police to combat crime and maintain national security.

King Onunwor