2019: ‘Avoid Temptation From Political Gladiators,’ IGP Idris Begs Officers

The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Ibrahim Idris, on Wednesday, begged his men to resist every temptation from “political gladiators” in the run-up to the 2019 general elections.

Idris, at a meeting with commissioners of police and other top-ranking officers at the Force Head Quarters, warned the officers to avoid anything that may mar the 2019 elections as well as the reputation of the Force.

The Police Chief urged the officers to prepare for 2018 as it will mark the beginning of a new political phase in the country.

“And this critical phase is that most of the elections would be conducted from next year.

“Officers should be steadfast, and please do their best to ensure that wherever you find yourself, you do your uttermost best to ensure that the political situation would be handled maturely and orderly.

“Number one, we have to avoid temptations wherever we find ourselves, it’s very important.

“Try to avoid temptation from the political gladiators and other people that may try to tempt you in the cause of having a smooth election.

“I want to appreciate every police officer across the country. We are doing our best within the limited resources available to us and I believe we will continue to deliver the best for this country.

“Police profession for long had been saddled with very efficient and professional officers and I believe we will need to continue this battle in the coming years, especially from next year when these elections would be conducted.

“Your job is a very difficult job, you know you are closer to the civil population more than any security agencies in this country.

“And I think at various levels, I want commissioners of police to imbibe it on their officers the need to be very available, to be professional to the civilian population, it is very very important.

“Because the civil populace have the trust in us and we have to positively serve the interest of the generality of Nigerians in ensuring that we have a fair and just election,” he said.