IGP Addresses Senior Police Officers Ahead Of Protest, Harps On Alertness, Professionalism
By Sunday Etuka, Abuja
The Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode EGbetokun, has charged the senior police officers across the country on the importance of maintenance law and order during the planned nationwide protest.
IGP gave the charge on Wednesday during a virtual conference with the Senior Police Officers.
Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi in a statement said, while speaking, the IGP emphasized the importance of maintaining a high level of alertness and professionalism within the force, noting that the safety and security of the nation depend on the vigilance, gallantry, and readiness of the officers in the Police and other security agencies.
The IGP highlighted the need for continuous preparedness and strategic deployment of police officers to respond to any situation while maximally equipped, and ready to handle any scenario that may arise.
Stressing the critical role of the police in maintaining law and order, the IGP reminded senior officers of their duty to uphold the rule of law, and police with the highest level of integrity.
The IGP also emphasized that while peaceful demonstrations are a democratic right, the police must be vigilant to prevent any group from hijacking such events to incite violence.
He directed that proactive measures must be emplaced to ensure that peaceful protests do not turn into violent confrontations, as Nigeria cannot afford to record any violence in this period.
Furthermore, with much emphasis, the IGP issued a stern warning against the spread of fake news via various media platforms charging officers to put in necessary emplacements to manage this, and advising members of the public to shun the spread of unverified contents on social media.
The IGP also warned against unplanned protests and unnecessary street processions, which can disrupt public order and safety reiterating that confined protests are best in this situation to prevent destruction of public infrastructures and other properties.
The IGP called on all senior officers to remain steadfast in their commitment to service, emphasizing that their leadership is crucial in navigating the challenges ahead.
