Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, announces intensified security measures and community engagement strategies to combat crime during Nigeria’s ember months. Oluwakemi Kindness
The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has unveiled comprehensive security measures ahead of Nigeria’s ember months, warning of seasonal spikes in robbery, kidnapping, and violent crimes.
Speaking at a senior officers’ conference in Abuja on Tuesday, IGP Egbetokun stressed that there is “no room for complacency” and directed Zonal Assistant Inspectors-General to implement multi-layered policing frameworks. Commissioners of Police were instructed to expand surveillance beyond urban centers into rural communities, with tactical units covering feeder routes, forest corridors, and highways.
“All commands must return with a detailed operational calendar for October to December,” he declared.
“Your tone becomes the culture of your commands. If you uphold ethics, your officers will follow. If you tolerate misconduct, impunity will multiply.”
The IGP also emphasized stronger community engagement, calling for consistent and genuine interaction with the public.
Operational Successes
Supporting his directives, IGP Egbetokun cited recent operational successes between July 31 and September 23, including:
- 4,383 suspects arrested, comprising armed robbers (481), kidnappers (260), murder suspects (371), firearms offenders (161), suspected rapists (322), and cultists (375).
- 1,138 kidnapped victims rescued
- 716 firearms recovered
- 21,238 rounds of ammunition recovered
- 212 stolen vehicles recovered
“These results prove that when leadership is intentional, results follow,” he said.
Successful Missions
He highlighted successful missions such as the rescue of kidnap victims in Edo and Ogun states, dismantling of armed groups in Anambra and Delta, and the arrest of electoral offenders during recent by-elections.
Report breakthroughs
IGP Egbetokun insisted that operational victories must be paired with accountability, directing all commands to report breakthroughs promptly and transparently. He warned officers against involvement in civil disputes, particularly land cases, stating:
“The Nigeria Police is not, and will never become, an enforcer for private interests.”
IGP Outlined Goals
As the last quarter begins, the IGP outlined the goal of police leadership: dominate criminal spaces, restore public confidence, and protect lives and property without compromise.
“Above all, we owe this nation a police force that does not falter, even when others do. May God guide our judgement, strengthen our steps, and bless the Nigerian Police Force and the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” he concluded.
Writing By, Oluwakemi Kindness
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