The Inspector General of Police, Dr. Kayode Egbetokun, expressed concern yesterday over the rising incidents of abuse, insults, and jungle justice faced by police officers while performing their duties. He warned that the police force will respond punitively to such behavior in the future.
Egbetokun stated that any attack on a police officer is a personal affront to him as the head of the police force in Nigeria.
Speaking to officers at the Police Headquarters in Enugu, he instructed supervisory officers to take appropriate action against civilians who engage in such misconduct.
He emphasized, “We will not accept any assaults on our officers, especially not the killing of police personnel. An assault on any officer is a criminal act and an assault on me, the IGP.
“For 2025, we will not tolerate any form of assault against our personnel, let alone their killing. In any instance of assault or murder of a police officer, a corresponding response will be required. We will no longer accept it.”
The IGP also assured officers that the Federal Government would soon implement improved welfare packages and provide better equipment to help them fulfill their responsibilities.
He commended the Enugu Police Command, particularly Commissioner CP Kanayo Uzuegbu, for their dedication in fighting crime, while acknowledging the need to address the few corrupt elements within the force.