Open memo to the new inspector- general of police

OPEN MEMO TO THE NEW INSPECTOR-GENERAL OF POLICE

Urgent Reforms to Strengthen Integrity, Professionalism, and Public Trust

By Abba Dukawa

Dear Sir,

First, permit me to congratulate you on your appointment as the new Inspector-General of Police. Your emergence at this critical moment in our nation’s history carries immense responsibility and presents a rare opportunity to restore confidence in the police institution.

Leadership is measured not by rhetoric, but by reform. This moment demands courage, consistency, and clarity of purpose. By confronting corruption head-on, restoring meritocracy, and enforcing lawful directives, your tenure can mark a turning point in the history of the Nigeria Police Force.

In a video posted on the Force’s official X account in September, former IGP warned officers against intervening in civil disputes or serving private interests: “Let me reiterate without ambiguity: the Nigerian Police Force is not, and will never become, an enforcer for private interests. Officers have no business escorting parties for land recovery, disrupting legally existing occupations, or meddling in civil claims that lack a demonstrable criminal element. Every such incident erodes the neutrality of the Force and exposes us to disrepute.”

This memo respectfully draws attention to three urgent areas requiring decisive action under your leadership.

1. A Firm and Visible Fight Against Corruption

Corruption remains the single greatest threat to the credibility and effectiveness of the Nigeria Police Force. From bribery at checkpoints to compromised investigations and questionable promotions, both the perception and the reality of corruption continue to erode public trust.

There is a pressing need to confront this challenge decisively. Your office may consider:

Strengthening internal disciplinary mechanisms and ensuring swift, transparent punishment for misconduct.

Establishing anonymous reporting channels for both officers and civilians. Deploying technology to reduce human discretion in processes prone to abuse.

Publicly prosecuting high-profile cases to send a strong deterrent message. A corruption-free police force is not only a moral necessity but also a strategic imperative for national security.

Enforce the Presidential Directive on Police Withdrawal; The continued deployment of police officers to unauthorized private individuals and entities weakens operational capacity and contradicts existing presidential directives.

Given the rising and multifaceted security challenges facing the country, Nigerians are keenly observing how the new Inspector-General of Police will implement President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s directive ordering the withdrawal of police officers assigned to guard VIPs and their redeployment to core policing duties.

There is a lesson to be drawn from the late General Patrick Aziza as Commander of the Lagos Garrison Command in 1997, he enforced strict discipline. Any soldier found roaming the streets of Lagos in uniform during working hours without authorization was promptly rounded up and deployed to join Nigerian troops fighting rebels in Sierra Leone.

Similarly, enforcement teams could be deployed to VIP events, airports, shopping malls, and other locations frequently visited by prominent individuals to identify officers who ignore the President’s directive and remain attached to their “ogas” and “madams.” Once identified, such officers could be reassigned to frontline areas such as Sambisa Forest, Lake Chad, Malam Fatori, Geidam, Gwoza, Birnin Gwari, and Shiroro—regions that continue to face persistent attacks from bandits and insurgents.

Strict enforcement of withdrawal policies would: Return manpower to core policing duties. Improve response times and community patrol coverage.

Reinforce the principle that public security resources are not for private privilege. Compliance should be monitored through regular audits and command accountability, with clear sanctions for violations.

End the Practice of Special Promotions

It is widely believed that you were once affected by an unwarranted special promotion that elevated junior officers ahead of you before your eventual appointment as IGP. Yet, by divine providence, you have now risen to the highest office in the Force.

Under the immediate past IGP, controversy surrounded rapid promotions. Critics alleged that certain promotion lists were “secretive” and disproportionately favored loyalists or particular ethnic groups.

When officers receive special promotions outside established criteria, it creates the perception that loyalty, influence, or favoritism outweigh competence and service record. This weakens institutional cohesion and damages morale.

To restore confidence in the promotion system, merit must be the bedrock of advancement within the Force. During your tenure, it is essential to enforce transparent, criteria-based promotion standards by clearly publishing guidelines and applying them consistently. Where exceptional promotions are absolutely necessary, they should undergo independent review and be supported by clear, documented justification.

A merit-driven structure will enhance operational efficiency and reinforce a culture of professionalism and excellence.

Importantly, rewarding exceptional officers does not necessarily require accelerated promotion in rank. Outstanding performance, bravery, and dedication can instead be recognized through structured commendation systems, such as a “Police Officer of Merit” award. Recognizing high-performing officers in this manner will strengthen morale while preserving institutional integrity.

The nation watches with expectation. The rank and file await direction. The public yearns for renewed trust.

May your leadership usher in a new era of integrity, professionalism, and service.

Dukawa Email: abbahydukawa@gmail.com