Adedokun Waliyu 
The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, has issued a stern warning to officers of the Nigeria Police Force that the era of professional recklessness and impunity is over.
He made this statement in Uyo during the passing-out ceremony of 1,068 retrained constables at the Mobile Base, 26 PMF. According to the IGP, the retraining exercise is not merely ceremonial but marks a new phase of professionalism within the Force.
Disu stressed that an unskilled officer carrying a weapon poses a danger to the public, while a skilled and disciplined officer serves as a true guardian of the people. He also praised the Akwa Ibom State Command for leading the retraining of female officers in arms handling, noting that gender does not limit competence.
He reaffirmed that Force Order 237 remains in effect, emphasizing that firearms must only be used as a last resort, in proportion to the threat, and strictly within legal boundaries.
Reiterating his earlier national address, the IGP declared that any officer who misuses a weapon or unlawfully kills a citizen will face immediate dismissal and prosecution, stressing that no badge grants the right to kill and no uniform shields anyone from justice.
He further warned against misconduct such as extortion, reporting for duty under the influence of alcohol, and reckless use of firearms, promising strict disciplinary action for offenders.
The IGP advised the newly retrained officers to carry out their duties with restraint, dignity, and respect for citizens, reminding them that their true test begins in the field.
The Commissioner of Police in Akwa Ibom State, Baba Mohammed Azare, revealed that some of the retrained officers have been selected for a newly created Violent Crime Response Unit aimed at tackling serious crimes.
He also highlighted operational achievements, including the safe evacuation of explosive devices at the Ikot Ekpene Custodial Centre and the rescue of kidnapped victims along the Calabar–Oron waterways through inter-agency collaboration.
The command reaffirmed its commitment to community policing and encouraged residents to support law enforcement by providing timely and credible information, assuring that all reports of misconduct will be properly investigated.
