Usman Alkali Baba, the inspector general of police, has reassured all Nigerians and citizens of the nation of their safety and security before, during, and after the holiday season, especially those who would travel or gather with friends and family in public areas.
This was said in a statement released on Thursday by Muyiwa Adejobi, the Force Public Relations Officer.
Adejobi said that Baba similarly told those travelling on highways, canals, airports, and rail tracks that preventive steps have been put in place to make sure they reach their destinations free of rogue people and criminal elements.
He added: “To achieve this, the IGP has ordered Assistant Inspectors-General of Police in charge of Zonal Police Command and Commissioners of Police in charge of States as well as heads of tactical, intelligence and operational units to ensure heavy deployments of officers in uniforms on highways, rail lines, waterways, airports and at the various recreational centres within their jurisdictions.
“Officers whose jurisdiction includes big cities with heavy traffic gridlocks have been tasked to deploy officers on motorbikes to monitor traffic and prevent traffic robberies.
“The IGP has similarly directed that officers should engage in visibility policing by ensuring that those on routine duties are in uniform and their vehicles marked with the names of their Divisions, Commands or Squadrons for proper identification by members of the public.
“All officers are to ensure strict compliance with standard operating procedures for their specific types of assignment while respect for fundamental rights of all persons is sacrosanct.
“The Inspector-General of Police therefore facilitates with the Nigerian Christian community as they celebrate Christmas while urging them to emulate the character of Christ.
“He equally wishes all Nigerians a prosperous new year 2023 in advance.”