Story by Iyiola Ayomide
The Lagos State Police Command has instructed officers, particularly Divisional Police Officers (DPOs), to handle the public with respect and humility.
The charge was given by CP Adegoke Fayoade, Commissioner of Police of the Lagos State Police Command, expressing his strong determination to not overlook any misconduct by the officers and personnel under his command.
During a discussion with members of the Crime Reporters Association of Nigeria (CRAN), the CP emphasized their resolve to rectify the unfavorable perception of the Police as not being supportive of the public.
According to Fayoade, he is ready to create an environment where Nigerians can perceive Police Stations as their own and freely file complaints without facing any difficulties or requirements.
The Police Commissioner emphasized the importance of transparency and an accessible approach, while also encouraging constructive feedback as a means of enhancing the system. He stated that if anyone notices him or his subordinates engaging in illegal activities, they should not hesitate to bring it to his attention as he is not here to condone any wrongdoing.
"I desire the police force to be accessible to everyone, allowing them to easily file complaints without facing any harsh treatment.
Additionally, my objective is to ensure that police officers consistently deliver exceptional services, treat the public with dignity and humility, and diligently pursue cases involving complainants, suspects, and investigations to guarantee a professional approach."
"I am also present to guarantee that reports and grievances are adequately received and thoroughly examined."
"If you observe that our procedures are not being carried out correctly, please don't hesitate to approach me.
As a collective, it is inevitable for us, as humans, to be flawless at all times. Errors may occur, but once they are brought to our attention, we will rectify them. This process is beneficial for us as it enables us to enhance our performance."
"I only anticipate your support and valuable feedback as without them, our progress will be hindered. Our goal is to enhance ourselves and rectify the unfavorable perception of the unfriendliness of the police force.
We strive for Nigerian citizens to perceive police stations as their own, a place where they can freely lodge complaints without any restrictions."
Furthermore, Fayoade gave residents his word that combatting cultism, traffic robbery, kidnapping, and other notable crimes in the state is one of his top priorities.
He observed that the Command will guarantee the enhancement of economic activities and the standard of living in Lagos State by creating a crime-free environment that will contribute to the state's prosperity.
To address the issue of cultism in the state, Fayoade revealed that three well-known gang members were apprehended in Ikorodu.
During the operation, various weapons including arms, ammunition, and a pump action were seized from them.
He further stated that the individuals who are under suspicion will be publicly displayed soon. "My primary focus in Lagos is to combat cultism, as well as address the prevalent issues of traffic robbery and kidnapping in the state."
"We have established a collaboration with the legal system to ensure that anyone who is apprehended will be removed from society for an extended period, allowing others to gain knowledge from their punishment."
"He further stated that the Command Complaint Response Unit (CRU) will receive enhanced authority and reinforcement to handle a larger number of complaints as he anticipates an increase in complaints during this time."
"The crackdown on motorcycle taxis will be more forceful this time around, as a majority of crimes are perpetrated using these motorcycles."
When it comes to dealing with land disputes, the police's role is not to investigate but rather to maintain peace and prevent any loss of life.
I will communicate with my colleagues and make sure that we clearly separate ourselves from land grabbers, as it is not within our jurisdiction.
"We are putting in extensive efforts to eradicate cultism in our state, and I acknowledge that the existing capacity of the Divisional headquarters in charge is insufficient.
As a result, I have established a specialized team with over fifty members dedicated to combating cultism.
This unit has already commenced its operations, and I am confident that they will successfully eliminate cultism in the near future."
"We are also examining the situation in Ikorodu, where we have already achieved some advancements. Lately, we have successfully apprehended the top leaders of the first, second, and third cult groups. I am committed to eradicating cultism completely in Lagos."
The head of the Police also mentioned that his leadership will prioritize transparency, ensuring that he will not condone any misconduct, even among his own officers. He expressed his commitment to reform the police force.
My desire is for all individuals to have the ability to visit any police station in order to file a complaint. "Receiving feedback will assist us in enhancing our performance, as our goal is to foster a positive relationship with the public and establish the notion of the Police Station as a welcoming place for Nigerians."
He emphasized the need for crime to be minimized as much as possible, so that the residents of Lagos can continue with their regular activities. In his address, Mr Lekan Olabulo, the President of the Crime Reporters Association (CRAN), warmly greeted the CP and officially welcomed him to Lagos. He acknowledged the strong bond between the Association and the Command, and expressed their commitment to offering their assistance and support.
"He stressed the importance of journalists being provided with regular updates on the activities of the command in order to accurately report and keep the public well-informed." Mrs Evelyn Usman, the Vice President of the association, highlighted that the dissemination of accurate information by the command is crucial for the residents of Lagos to be aware of the ongoing events.
0 Comments