A new era of accountability has been declared in the Nigeria Police Force as the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, issued a thunderous warning against impunity while presiding over the passing-out parade of 1,068 retrained constables in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.
At the high-profile ceremony held at the Police Mobile Force Base, 26 PMF, the Nigeria Police Force boss made it clear that the days of unchecked abuse of power are over, declaring: “Impunity ends now. No badge is a license to kill.”
The retraining exercise, according to the IGP, marks a decisive shift toward professionalism, discipline, and respect for human rights within the Force. He stressed that officers must see firearms as a last resort, in line with established rules of engagement, and warned that any misuse would attract immediate dismissal and prosecution.
“A gun in the hands of an unskilled officer is a threat—but in the hands of a disciplined professional, it is a tool for protection,” Disu said, reinforcing the message of reform and responsibility.
He also took a firm stance against extortion, intoxication on duty, and reckless conduct, promising zero tolerance for misconduct across ranks.
The Commissioner of Police in Akwa Ibom, Baba Mohammed Azare, revealed that some of the retrained officers will form part of the newly created Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU), a specialized strike force aimed at tackling rising security threats in the state.
Azare highlighted recent operational successes, including the safe evacuation of explosives at the Ikot Ekpene Custodial Centre and the rescue of kidnapped victims along the Calabar–Oron waterways—achievements credited to improved inter-agency collaboration.
Dignitaries at the event included top-ranking police officials and representatives of the state government, underscoring the significance of the reform initiative.
As the newly retrained officers prepare to return to the streets, the message from the top is unmistakable: professionalism is no longer optional, and accountability is non-negotiable.
Residents have been urged to support the police with timely information, as authorities pledge swift action on any report of misconduct—signaling what many hope will be a turning point in policing standards nationwide.
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