In a strong declaration aimed at curbing police misconduct in Lagos State, Commissioner of Police CP Olohundare Jimoh has reaffirmed a zero-tolerance policy for officers involved in extortion.
Speaking during an interview on Symfoni TV, the police chief emphasized that any officer caught exploiting members of the public for personal gain would face the full weight of the law.
“Any officer caught extorting money from the public will face the full weight of the law,” CP Jimoh stated, highlighting the commitment of the Lagos State Police Command to uphold integrity, restore public trust, and ensure that law enforcement personnel act professionally in all circumstances.
During the briefing, the Commissioner recounted a recent meeting with the Inspector General of Police, where specific directives were issued to reinforce ethical conduct among officers. According to CP Jimoh, the guidelines mandate that all personnel respect the human rights and dignity of citizens while carrying out their duties.
A key focus of the initiative is to reform the way stop-and-search operations are conducted. CP Jimoh noted that officers would be educated on the importance of carrying out such operations with a “human face.”
He specifically warned against stopping individuals on the road to search their phones, except under clearly justified circumstances, such as reports of a crime requiring immediate attention.
“This policy is designed to eliminate harassment of unsuspecting members of the public while ensuring that crime prevention efforts do not infringe upon citizens’ rights,” CP Jimoh explained. “We want the public to see the police as protectors, not as sources of intimidation or extortion.”
The Commissioner made it clear that particular attention would be paid to areas where extortion has historically been prevalent, including the collection of fees related to permits for tinted windows or other traffic regulations.
Any officer found exploiting these processes for personal gain will be dealt with severely and face disciplinary measures, including prosecution under the law.
CP Jimoh also outlined plans to conduct periodic workshops and training sessions for police personnel to reinforce ethical standards, emphasizing that education and supervision are critical in curbing corrupt practices within the force. Officers will receive regular briefings on human rights, community policing, and the legal implications of misconduct.
Beyond addressing extortion, the Commissioner highlighted some recent successes in crime prevention in Lagos State.
He shared that police officers had successfully apprehended suspects involved in armed robbery and vehicle vandalization, signaling the command’s ongoing commitment to ensuring the safety and security of residents.
“The fight against crime and corruption within the police force must go hand in hand,” CP Jimoh said. “We are not only focused on punishing wrongdoing but also on creating an environment where ethical behavior is the norm.”
The public has welcomed CP Jimoh’s remarks, with civil society organizations and community leaders expressing hope that these directives will translate into tangible improvements in policing.
Many noted that the perception of corruption and harassment by law enforcement has long undermined trust between the police and citizens, making initiatives like this crucial for improving public confidence.
Observers also highlighted the importance of follow-up and accountability, urging the Lagos State Police Command to establish mechanisms for reporting misconduct anonymously and ensuring swift action against officers found violating ethical standards.
In conclusion, CP Jimoh’s statement reflects a broader push within Nigeria to professionalize law enforcement and safeguard the rights of citizens.
By combining enforcement, education, and accountability, the Lagos State Police Command aims to demonstrate that misconduct and extortion will not be tolerated under any circumstances.Continue, Full, Reading>>>>
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