The Minister of Police Affairs, Abdul-Jelili Adesiyan, has maintained that the men of the Nigeria Police Force are well prepared to protect lives and property of Nigerians before, during and after the polls.
He said this on Saturday at the passing out parade of Cadets of the Police College of Information Communication Technology Professionals, at Iperu Remo, Ogun State.
He said having been trained, the police would continue to demonstrate professionalism and act with impartiality and exhibit due respect for the rights of the citizens in order to guarantee the safety and security of all.
He said, “The police will reinforce security measures within the framework of the laws and without intimidation. They will respect and keep their constitutional obligations to be professionals and impartial in guaranteeing security for all.”
Adesiyan appealed to the political parties and their candidates to reciprocate the gesture of the government by shunning violence and inflammatory statements capable of inciting citizens to violence.
He noted that political leaders should embark on civic education of their party candidates, loyalists and supporters at all levels, particularly the grassroots on the need to embrace peace and conduct themselves peacefully before, during and after the elections.
He urged religious leaders and the faith- based organisations to be good role models to their followers, since they were revered by their followers. He added their actions and words could make or mar the peace and security of the nation.
The Inspector-General of Police, Suleiman Abba, who was represented at the event by his deputy in charge of training, Hashimu Argungu, said despite being faced with daunting challenges, he noted that the Force had been able to prove its worth on many occasions.
The Chairman, Police Service Commission, Mike Okiro, who was equally represented at the passing out parade by the Director of Administration and Finance, Emmanuel Ibe, said the training would go a long way in empowering the officers of the police force ahead of any challenges noting that the commission was ready to provide all the necessary support that would boost the morale of its men across the country.
Source: Punch
