Acting Inspector-General of Police, Mohammed Abubakar, on Monday directed the police to start the patrol of all federal highways across the country with immediate effect.
The IG, who met with senior officers in Abuja on Tuesday to review the security situation in the country, said the patrols would be complemented by a Rapid Response Structure.
However, Abubakar ruled out the return of roadblocks, which were being used by corrupt policemen to extort money from motorists and commuters, saying the issue was closed.
He noted the apprehension of the public about the increasing robbery in the country and other criminal activities, pledging to keep the roads safe for travellers.
He defended the steps taken by his administration to reposition the police, saying they were aimed at transforming the force.
The police chief said, “Today, stories of toll collection, harassment of citizens on highways and other gory tales earlier associated with roadblocks no longer confront us. The roadblocks have disappeared and I intend that the situation remains so.
“Therefore, all commands shall, with immediate effect, commence robust motorised patrols of federal highways within their jurisdiction to ensure safety and easy passage of road users. Nigerians travelling on our highways must be sure of their safety with visible police patrols.”
He added, “I believe that our image which is gradually taking a good turn will improve when we all do our part to make Nigeria a place conducive to social and economic development.”
The IG, who announced the setting up of another department, known as the ‘G’ Department to deal with technological aspect of security challenges in the country, said armed robberies had declined since he assumed office, commending the state commissioners of police for taking proactive steps to rid their states of criminals.
He denied reports of the killing of civilians by security personnel during clashes with suspected Boko Haram members in the North, insisting that such alleged extra-judicial killings could not be blamed solely on his men.
However, Abubakar promised to investigate such killings.
He said, “In every country of the world, the responsibility of internal security is solely on the police. But in this present case, we will ensure that our men are well-behaved and that they don’t kill innocent citizens.”
This is a welcome development. Since the policemen are off the road, there have been cases of robery and all such criminal behaviours, simply because nobody or group to subjugate them. But now with the presence of highly-armed police, the menace of armed robbery would be reduced to bearable level. I salute the efforts of Acting IG on this gesture.
ReplyDeleteOur security operatives should place much emphasis on intelligent gathering which is the hallmark of any serious security outfit throughout the world. I am happy that the Ag. IG resisted the temptation of returning road block on our roads. Are we sure the so called breach of security is not a deliberate attempt to justify the necessity to resuscitate the corrupt laden activity.
ReplyDeleteThis is commendable. Keep the flag flying Abubarkar
ReplyDeleteAuthorities needs to start having the public in mind.
ReplyDeleteNo road blocks, but yes to high way patrol.
The used to be road blocks perpetually increased the time for journey made along our roads.