We’ll respect FG’s decision on creation of state police – IGP

The Inspector General of Police, Olukayode Egbetokun, said the police force will respect the federal government’s decision regarding the creation of state police.

Speaking to newsmen during a working visit to Lagos on Monday, IGP Egbetokun, represented by the Coordinating Deputy Inspector General of Police, South-West, Mr Abiodun Alabi, clarified the force’s position amidst various opinions on the matter.

Egbetokun advised officers to continue performing their duties as outlined by the Nigerian constitution, maintaining discipline, respecting human rights and executing their roles professionally.

He cautioned against the misuse of firearms, stressing that they should be used responsibly and in accordance with the law.

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IGP Egbetokun also highlighted the importance of mental and physical health for the police force, directing the officer in charge of Police Medical to conduct mental and psychological tests on Lagos State command personnel.

He also mentioned ongoing collaborations with consultants to provide suitable accommodation for officers, with plans to enable personnel to access their own homes soon.

The police chief warned against rivalry with other security agencies, noting that the Nigeria Police alone cannot ensure the nation’s security.

On combating cultism, he urged officers to engage proactively with youths in their command areas to educate them about the dangers of cultism.

Earlier, Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Mr Adegoke Fayoade, welcomed the DIG and highlighted the success of collaborative crime prevention strategies which have significantly reduced crime rates in the state.

He reassured the DIG that these efforts would continue to rid the state of criminal elements.

DIG Alabi’s visit to Lagos marked the beginning of his tour of the South-West states as mandated by the IGP for on-the-spot assessment of all commands.