By: Adeosun Ewatomi
COMMISSIONING OF THE COMPLAINT RESPONSE UNIT IN THE RIVERS STATE POLICE COMMAND
On October 23rd, 2024, the Complaint Response Unit (CRU) of the Rivers State Police Command was officially commissioned at the Rivers State Police Headquarters, Moscow Road, Port Harcourt. The commissioning was done by the Assistant Inspector-General of Police for Zone 16, Yenagoa, AIG Adebola Ayinde Hazmat, FDC representing the Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, PhD, NPM,
Upon his arrival, AIG Hazmat was received by the Rivers State Police Commissioner, CP Mustapha Mohammed Bala, psc, accompanied by the Deputy Commissioner of Police for Administration, DCP Samuel-Erale Etaifo, alongside other Assistant Commissioners of Police and senior officers. A guard of honour was mounted by officers of the Command to mark the occasion.
In his address, AIG Hazmat expressed his pleasure at the gathering of stakeholders, emphasizing the importance of collective efforts to enhance democratic policing in Nigeria. He reaffirmed the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) to its primary mandate of ensuring the safety and security of the country, crucial for fostering economic growth. He acknowledged the negative impact that perceived impunity and violations of citizens' rights have had on public trust in the NPF, noting that these challenges have undermined the relationship between the Police and the public.
In response to these concerns, the Inspector General has revitalized the Police Complaint Response Unit (CRU), a mechanism specifically designed to address cases of police misconduct and uphold professional standards during interactions between officers and citizens. The establishment of the CRU in the Rivers State Police Command provides an avenue for residents to report misconduct, ensuring that their grievances are heard and addressed promptly, thereby restoring confidence in the Police Force.
AIG Hazmat also commended the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and the United States Diplomatic Mission in Nigeria, particularly the Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs, for their continued support in enhancing police accountability and addressing professional misconduct.
In his welcome address, the Commissioner of Police for Rivers State, CP Mustapha Mohammed Bala, expressed his pride in the commissioning of the CRU office complex. He described the event as a significant milestone in the Command's ongoing efforts to promote professionalism and accountability. He reiterated the Police Command's commitment to zero tolerance for professional misconduct in its interactions with the public.
CP Bala extended his appreciation to the UNODC and INL for their unwavering support in fostering an environment of professionalism, transparency, and community engagement within the Police. He emphasized that the CRU complex stands as a testament to the Police Force’s dedication to serving the public with honour and dignity, highlighting trust, accountability, and collaboration as the cornerstones of the relationship between the Police and the community.
The event was attended by a diverse group of dignitaries, including the Chairman of the Rivers State Council of Traditional Rulers, the Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), representatives from various civil society organizations, market associations, labour unions, and members of the press.
The highlight of the ceremony was the unveiling of the CRU office complex, symbolizing the Police Force's commitment to upholding the highest standards of professionalism and accountability.
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