President Goodluck Jonathan has vowed to monitor the strict across the board compliance of set rules of conduct of the Nigeria Police Force as they discharge their duties.The President stated this Thursday in Abuja when he launched the Code of Conduct and Professional Standards for Officers and Men of the Nigeria Police Force.
Jonathan who was represented by Vice President Arc Mohammed Namadi Sambo, said “I expect a quarterly assessment of compliance to be at my desk to enable me monitor overall improvement or otherwise.”
He therefore charged the Police High command to ensure that, “all police officers must be fully aware of its provisions and strive at all times to live up to its standards.” He described the Code as simple and easy for all Police Officers and members of the public to understand, which reflects international conventions for law enforcement agents.
President Jonathan assured of his administration’s continued support to the Police, urging them to “enforce the law politely and properly without fear or favour, never employing unnecessary violence and never accepting inducements.”
The President also commended the Police for their avowed loyalty and courage saying, “I am delighted that the leadership of the Nigeria Police is taking positive internal steps to complement our efforts as exemplified by today’s launch.”
Speaking the Edo State Governor, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole, used the opportunity to implore the Police to ensure professionalism and strict observance of the rule of law in the discharge of their duties.
Earlier the Inspector General of Police, Mohammed Abubakar, stated that the Code was meant to instil discipline and accountability in the Nigeria Police Force to ensure public trust and confidence. He assured that the Code would be strictly adhered to and its implementation monitored to the letter. He noted that the Code highlights the ethical standard expected of all members of the Force irrespective of their ranks, saying it could be described as an Article of Faith.
Highlight of the event was the launching by the Vice President of a Police Magazine, titled Dan Sanda. The Code was reviewed by renowned lawyer, Mr. Mike Ozekhome (SAN).
Present at the occasion was the Chief Justice of the Federation, Justice Aloma Maryam Mukhtar and Governors of Rivers, Kano, Anambra, Gombe, Abia, Katsina, Kaduna, Benue and Acting Governor of Taraba State. Others were the Minister of Police Affairs, Service Chiefs, serving and retired top police officers, members of the diplomatic corps and several others.
