The Ebonyi State Police Command has reinforced the directives of the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), warning officers and personnel across the state to maintain professionalism, discipline, accountability, and respect for the constitutional rights of Nigerians.
The renewed directive was delivered by the Commissioner of Police in Ebonyi State, CP Hope Urunwa-Okafor, during a strategic meeting attended by Heads of Departments, Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers (DPOs), and other senior officers.
The meeting followed the Inspector-General’s engagement with the Strategic Management Team of the Nigeria Police Force and was aimed at ensuring that the latest operational directives are fully implemented across the Ebonyi State Command.
CP Warns Against Extortion, Harassment and Abuse of Office
Addressing senior officers, the Commissioner made it clear that unethical conduct would no longer be tolerated within the command.
She specifically warned officers against acts of misconduct such as extortion, harassment, abuse of office, intimidation of members of the public, incivility, and other actions capable of damaging the image of the Nigeria Police Force.
According to the Commissioner, officers are expected to carry out their responsibilities with integrity, professionalism, and fairness while respecting the rights of every citizen.
She stressed that restoring public confidence in the police requires officers to demonstrate discipline and accountability in every aspect of their duties.
Senior Officers to Face Responsibility for Misconduct
CP Urunwa-Okafor also directed Area Commanders and Divisional Police Officers to strengthen supervision over personnel under their commands.
She warned that supervisory officers would be held accountable for any misconduct committed by officers if it is linked to poor oversight or negligence.
The directive is expected to encourage stricter internal monitoring and ensure that officers comply with the ethical standards outlined by the police leadership.
Police Step Up Security Ahead of Election Activities
With political activities expected to intensify ahead of the forthcoming elections, the Commissioner instructed police formations across Ebonyi State to strengthen intelligence gathering and proactive policing.
She ordered Area Commanders and Divisional Police Officers to sustain intelligence-led operations targeting criminal hideouts and other security threats in order to prevent crime and maintain public safety during the election period.
The move is part of broader efforts to ensure a peaceful environment as political campaigns and other election-related activities gather momentum.
Officers Barred From Illegal Phone Searches
The Commissioner also issued a firm warning against the unlawful search of citizens’ mobile phones and other electronic devices.
She reminded officers that such searches must not be carried out without a valid search warrant, noting that unauthorized searches violate the constitutional rights of Nigerians.
The directive reinforces existing policing guidelines aimed at protecting citizens from unlawful interference with their privacy and personal property.
Ebonyi Police Push for More Professional Policing
CP Urunwa-Okafor concluded by urging officers to uphold the values of professionalism, integrity, respect for human rights, and courteous service in every interaction with members of the public.
She emphasized that maintaining these standards is essential to improving public trust and protecting the reputation of the Nigeria Police Force while ensuring effective law enforcement across Ebonyi State.
