Newly promoted senior police officers in Lagos and Ogun states have been warned against forceful extortion.
The admonition was given on Tuesday by the Assistant Inspector General of Police in charge of the zone, Adegoke Fayoade, during the decoration of the newly promoted officers.
The police boss also charged the promoted officers to see their latest promotion as a “call to more duties.”
Among those decorated with their new ranks were the current police image maker in charge of Zone 2 Police Command, Umma Ayuba, and the image maker in charge of the Ogun State Police Command, Omolola Odutola, who were both promoted to the rank of Chief Superintendent of Police.
While congratulating the newly promoted officers, the AIG advised them to remain dedicated and committed to their duties.
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AIG Fayoade said, “When you are given a promotion like this, you don’t go to sleep. It requires you to do more for the country and respect the citizens. Don’t collect money from Nigerians by force.”
“If you do your work well, Nigerians will appreciate you. Don’t forcibly extort money from people.
“Nothing motivates a police officer more than receiving promotions when due.
“My greatest honor as AIG in charge of Zone 2, as a leader, is to oversee the promotion of my officers who have demonstrated consistent professional excellence, good service records, and moral strength in the discharge of their functions.”
“Promotion is not easy to get; it comes from God Almighty. When it’s time for you to be promoted, nobody can stop it. I congratulate you once again.
“I also want to thank the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, for promoting every one of you.
“About two thousand officers were promoted from the rank of Superintendent of Police to Chief Superintendent of Police—it’s a record-breaking achievement.”
According to AIG Fayoade, the promotion of the officers came at the right time and will boost their morale.
He said, “The new rank comes with obligations in terms of conduct, professional outlook, the ability to dissect very complex internal security issues, and taking decisions that align with the law and the interests of the citizens you serve.
“I also want to thank the Police Service Commission chairman and his team for approving the promotions.”
AIG Fayoade stated that it is the responsibility of the newly promoted officers to secure the states where they work and to project the image of the force.
“Don’t revert to your old ways. Always exhibit good attitudes and do away with behaviors you were known for before now.
“Also, show love and kindness to members of the public and stay away from corruption. Nigerians are very kind and generous.”
He appealed to the promoted officers to see their promotions as another step in their bright careers and to prepare for the challenges that come with their new positions.
“There are no more excuses. Always be guided by certain values, and don’t compromise those values so that lapses won’t bring you down.
“I commit you to God and pray that He continues to perfect your careers, sustain the strength of character that brought you to this point, and brighten your future.”
NIGERIAN TRIBUNE