Newly appointed acting Inspector General of Police, Tunji Ditsu, has promised to boost the morale of officers in fighting insurgency, banditry and all forms of insecurity ravaging the country.
Ditsu also vowed to tackle corruption within the Nigeria Police Force and also end impunity and abuse of human rights perpetrated by officers.
Ditsu made the promise while speaking to State House Correspondents shortly after his swearing-in at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, on Wednesday, February 25.
The new acting IGP was decorated with his new rank as Acting Inspector-General of Police by President Bola Tinubu at the Villa.
Ditsu’s appointment by President Tinubu followed the retirement of Kayode Egbetokun on Tuesday, February 24.
While acknowledging the sacrifices of police personnel in fighting crime and enforcing law and order, Ditsu said he would encourage them to do better.
“The country is facing a particular problem now, the issue of banditry and insurgency. I know all police officers around have been doing their best. They are hardworking people. All I need to do is channel their morale and their thoughts to make anything better,” Ditsu stated.
On ending impunity and corruption, he said: “I will let them know that the era of impunity is over. I will ensure that I train them and encourage them to ensure they follow human rights.
I will ensure that they know that I will try to follow a regime of zero tolerance to corruption, and most importantly, I’m going to drum it into them that we can never succeed without the cooperation of members of the public.”
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On his part, President Tinubu assured the acting IGP of his full support and charged him restore peace and strengthen security across the country.
According to a statement by Tinubu’s spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, the president said he appointed Ditsu to take charge of the police force because of his track record of performance in previous capacities.
“I made this decision for you to assume this responsibility. I know your record. I saw the dedication you exhibited while you were in Lagos when I was governor,” the President said.
While noting that Ditu’s appointment comes at a critical time for the country, Tinubu urged the acting IGP to work hard and rebuild public confidence in the police’s capacity to do their job in collaboration with other security forces.
The president urged the acting IGP to work hard towards restoring professionalism in the police force and ensure that the security of lives and property remains the topmost priority.
Tinubu also expressed gratitude to the outgoing IGP, Kayode Egbetokun, for his service to the nation.
He urged Egbetokun to be ready to offer useful advice to his successor and wished him and his family peace, good health, and success in future endeavours.
On his part, Egbetokun, who formally handed over to his successor, Ditsu, thanked Tinubu for giving him the opportunity to serve the country under his administration.
Egbetokun said he and Ditsu share a unique history of having worked together under Tinubu when he was governor of Lagos State.
He advised Ditsu to continue showing commitment to the things they have been doing together in tackling crimes and insecurity.
The appointment of Ditsu is pending ratification by the Nigeria Police Council and the Senate’s confirmation.
Victor Ezeja is a passionate journalist, scholar and analyst of socioeconomic issues in Nigeria and Africa. He is skilled in energy reporting, business and economy, and holds a master's degree in mass communication.
