News Investigators/ The new Commissioner of Police in Kebbi, Umar Hadejia, has assumed duty, pledging to decisively tackle criminality to ensure that the state “does not” become a haven for criminals.
Mr Hadejia made the pledge on Monday during his inaugural address at the Kebbi Police Command Headquarters in Birnin Kebbi.
The Police Chief, who is the 38th Commissioner of Police in the state, promised to prioritise the protection of lives and property, maintain public order, and strict internal discipline within the command.
He noted that the state’s strategic location, expansive rural landscape and international borders posed peculiar security challenges, including banditry, kidnapping, illegal arms trafficking and other trans-border crimes.
“Kebbi’s strategic location, vast rural terrain and border communities present unique security challenges, including banditry, kidnapping, illegal movement of arms and trans-border crimes,” Hadejia said.
He assured residents of his total commitment to lawful and decisive crime-fighting, stressing that criminal elements would find no safe haven in the state.
“I assure the good people of Kebbi of my total commitment to the protection of lives and property and the preservation of peace and public order.
“Criminality will be confronted decisively and lawfully,” Hadejia assured.
The new CP said the command would adopt a proactive policing approach in line with the vision of the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun.
According to him, his emphasis will be on community-based policing and intelligence-led operations.
“Our policing strategy will be driven by community-based policing and intelligence-led operations.
“This will strengthen border security, enhance rural patrols, disrupt criminal networks, improve intelligence coordination and ensure rapid response to security threats,” he said.
Mr Hadejia solicited for the cooperation and support from members of the public, while assuring to operate an open-door policy.
However, the commissioner issued a stern warning to officers and men of the command against all forms of misconduct.
“Let me state clearly that indiscipline, corruption, negligence and unprofessional conduct will not be tolerated under my watch,” he warned.
The CP charged officers to uphold the core values of the Nigeria Police Force, which hinged on integrity, discipline, professionalism, respect for human rights and strict adherence to the rule of law.
“Our conduct must at all times reflect fairness, firmness and accountability,” the commissioner declared.
He also advocated for synergy among stakeholders, including the state government, sister security agencies, the media and law-abiding citizens, to address security challenges in the state.
NAN
