‘Don’t Allow Politicians Use You Against Their Enemies’ – Group Advises IGP Disu
A civil society organisation has advised the newly appointed Inspector General of Police, Rilwan Tunji Disu, not to allow the police institution to be used by politicians to pursue personal or political vendettas.
The group, Save the Poor and Needy Charity Initiative (SPANCI), made the appeal in a congratulatory message following Disu’s emergence as the 23rd Inspector General of Police.
The statement was signed by the organisation’s President, Yemi Ezekiel Bello, and released to journalists on Sunday.
In the message, SPANCI urged the police chief to remain professional and ensure that the force is not manipulated by political actors to target perceived opponents or critics.
The group stressed the importance of fairness and neutrality in the discharge of police duties, noting that the office of the Inspector General carries enormous responsibility in safeguarding democratic principles and protecting the rights of citizens.
Bello said the appointment presents an opportunity for the new police boss to strengthen professionalism and restore greater public confidence in policing across the country.
“We in SPANCI congratulate you on your appointment as Inspector General of Police. Secondly we commend your track record in the past and we believe you will use this experience and opportunity to improve professionalism in the police operation across the country.
“Dear IGP, it is our interest that you protect the fundamental rights of the people, secure their lives and properties, fight crime with seriousness.
“We also wish that you give your officers, quality standard of living to encourage them stay focus and do their job with happiness because their salary is too low to meet up daily responsibilities. Their barracks are terrible places for shelters. Also Train them and punish corrupt and unprofessional officers who are discrediting this noble course and making people think contrary about Nigerian Police force.
“We also wish that you respect the law and obey court orders by this you will write your name on golden plate and reference will be made about you in future.
‘Do justice always without fear or favor and do not turn yourself to toll of witch hunt in the hand of politicians against their antagonists but protect our laws and constitution. We pray that God will help you achieve the best for the Nation and end well in meritorious service”.
Beyond the warning against political interference, the organisation also urged the police chief to prioritise the welfare of officers and men of the force. According to SPANCI, poor living conditions, inadequate salaries and deteriorating police barracks have continued to affect the morale of personnel across the country.
The group noted that improving welfare, providing regular training and enforcing discipline within the force would go a long way in improving service delivery and rebuilding public trust in the police.
SPANCI also advised the Inspector General to demonstrate strict respect for the rule of law, including obedience to court orders, while ensuring that justice is carried out fairly and without bias.
