The Assistant Inspector General of Police for Zone Six in Calabar, AIG Jonathan Towuru, has delivered a compelling message to 47 newly promoted Assistant Superintendents of Police (ASPs) during their official induction at the Zonal Command Officers Mess.
Towuru emphasized the importance of practical leadership qualities and the maintenance of police discipline in their new roles. He urged the ASPs to recognize the elevated responsibilities that come with their promotions and to demonstrate effective leadership within their respective police units across the country.
Addressing the inductees, AIG Towuru remarked, “I want to charge you to realise that you are leaders of the rank and file in the police units you are posted to. You must display this leadership role as you can be posted to any part of the country. You must maintain police discipline.”
Notably, AIG Towuru also spotlighted the significance of prioritizing health and well-being among police officers. He cautioned the ASPs against neglecting their health and encouraged them to adhere to medical advice, undergo regular check-ups, engage in physical exercises, and maintain a healthy diet.
Furthermore, retired Commissioner of Police, Gabriel Achong, expressed concern regarding the decline in discipline and official dressing standards within the police force. He lamented the prevalence of substandard official attire and stressed the essence of upholding discipline and professionalism at all times.
Reflecting on the historical context, Achong underscored the pivotal role of ASPs in overseeing police divisions, particularly referencing Calabar’s past with 10 police divisions under the leadership of ASPs. He urged the new inductees to uphold discipline and avoid any act that could undermine the integrity of the police force.
Additionally, DCP Abayomi Shogunle, the President of the Mess, employed vivid imagery to describe the Officers’ Mess as a ‘Court of Injustice,’ humorously characterizing it as a place where every movement is perceived as an offence. He emphasized the mandatory nature of police officers’ membership in a Mess, outlining the essential hierarchical levels within the Mess structure.
Representing their peers, ASPs Benedict Okwoche and Lucy Ejuba expressed their readiness to rise to the challenge presented by their promotions and induction. They articulated their commitment to diligently fulfill their responsibilities and maintain the trust placed in them.
The induction culminated with the administration of the oath of allegiance to the 47 newly inducted ASPs, signifying their official commitment to upholding the principles of leadership, discipline, and professional excellence in their service to the nation.
