The Assistant-Inspector of Police, AIG Babaita Ishola, has pledged to address the issue of citizen brutality by police officers through the implementation of a new training curriculum for recruits. This initiative, aimed at enhancing citizen-focused policing, was announced during AIG Babaita’s familiarisation visit to Ilorin, the capital of Kwara State in North Central Nigeria.
AIG Babaita expressed concern about the high incidence of incivility among police officers towards members of the public, who he described as the force’s employers. He emphasized that the police are meant to serve, not rule or oppress the public. Recognizing the need for a change in perception among officers, AIG Babaita stated, “Incivility towards the public by police officers is on the rise. We must remember that police officers are servants of the general public; we are called to serve and not to rule or oppress them.”
Highlighting the importance of community policing, AIG Babaita stressed that police officers must be aware of and engaged with their immediate communities. He stated, “Community policing should be encouraged to effectively combat crime in our society.”
In line with the administration of the Acting Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, AIG Babaita affirmed the commitment to eradicate police brutality through the reformation of the police training curriculum. He emphasized that the new curriculum will have a “special focus on attitudinal and behavioral changes for new recruits, as well as re-orientation programs for serving officers.” The aim is to identify individuals with negative mindsets and a propensity for violence among recruits.
In addition to addressing brutality, AIG Babaita announced the establishment of a specialized unit called the School Protection Squad (SPS). This unit will be dedicated to the protection of schools, both at the elementary and tertiary levels, across the country.
Recognizing the importance of ensuring the safety of educational institutions, AIG Babaita stated, “The safety of schools and educational institutions is of paramount concern to the police. We will utilize all available resources to mitigate the increased danger faced by students, staff, and educational facilities.” He further added that the police has developed an action plan and strategies to prevent and respond to attacks on schools and the abduction of students.
Addressing the welfare of police officers, AIG Babaita assured the officers of Kwara command that the acting IG Egbetokun would prioritize their well-being. He emphasized the need for improved welfare, resources, training, and support for officers to carry out their duties professionally and within the framework of the law.
Furthermore, AIG Babaita announced the resuscitation of the Police Officer Support Unit (POSU) under the Police Medical Services. This unit will provide confidential support and counseling for police officers to cope with daily challenges and traumas they face in the line of duty.
Recognizing the evolving nature of crime, AIG Babaita highlighted the role of innovation and technology in combating criminal activities. He stated, “We will leverage cutting-edge tools, data analytics, and intelligence networks to stay ahead of those who seek to disrupt the peace. By harnessing the power of technology, we can make our streets safer, our investigations more efficient, and our communities more resilient.”
In conclusion, the Commissioner of Police for Kwara State, Ebunoluwarotimi Adelesi, expressed gratitude for AIG Babaita’s visit and commended the collaborative efforts of the police and other security agencies in curbing criminal activities in the state. She highlighted the challenges faced by the state due to its proximity to local and international boundaries, making it susceptible to both local and cross-border criminality. However, through the unwavering determination of the officers and the support of the community, the state has made significant progress in combating cultism and kidnappings.
