The Inspector-General of Police, IGP MD Abubakar, has on behalf of the Police High Command, officers and men of the Force heartily expressed his felicitation with Christians in Nigeria as they join their counterparts across the globe to joyfully celebrate this year’s Christmas,a statement by CSP Frank E. Mba,Deputy Force Public Relations Officer said.
While reminding Christians of the very significance of Christmas – the holy birth of Jesus Christ; the IGP enjoins them to emulate and imbibe the worthy virtues, principles and teachings of Christ, by being open minded to issues of peace, forgiveness and harmonious co-existence, especially, at this auspicious moment in the history of our country. He calls on all Nigerians to appreciate and respect the diversities of the nation, and leverage on same as a source of strength and medium for national development.
Meanwhile, the statement said to ensure a peaceful and incident-free Christmas celebration the IGP has directed all Zonal AIGs and State Command Commissioners of Police to take all necessary measures to ensure the provision of adequate security across the country before, during and after the celebration. CPs are to personally, ensure that key and vulnerable points including: shopping malls, motor parks, financial houses, places of worship, recreation centres and other public places are adequately and effectively protected, to enable holiday makers, worshippers and the general public enjoy maximum fulfillment. In a similar vein, Zonal AIGs and CPs have been directed to ensure the provision of 24hrs security around all government installations, strategic facilities and other key targets.
In addition, Commanders of Police Highway Patrol Teams have been directed to ensure that motorized patrols on our highways targeted at crime and accident prevention, are intensified to ensure a safe, secure and peaceful celebration. Police men deployed on our highways have also been directed to render necessary assistance to travelers and road users, especially accident victims and those who may suffer vehicular break down.
The IGP also warned officers who will be deployed during the period, to ensure that they comport themselves and act within the confines of the law. They must be firm but polite, civil and professional in the discharge of their assigned roles, giving due regard and respect to the fundamental human rights of citizens at all times.
On the other hand, in the spirit of the season, the IGP expressed his gratitude to Nigerians for their cooperation, patience and understanding all through 2012, particularly in the face of daunting national security challenges. He sues for peace from all Nigerians, irrespective of religious, political and socio-cultural leaning, expressing the belief that the country’s multifarious challenges, including that of security, are surmountable with all hands on deck.
The Police Chief equally paid tribute to all Officers and men of the Nigeria Police Force, for their dedication, tireless courage and selfless service to father-land and humanity. He restates his resolve and commitment to reposition the Force, bargain for better welfare package and a more humane and conducive working condition for Police personnel. He commiserates with families of patriotic members of the Force who, like the heroes they truly are, paid the supreme price in the out-going year, to ensure that Nigerians enjoy peace and security.
Finally, the IGP seeks the prayers, support and understanding of Nigerians, assuring that by God’s grace, the battle against crime and criminality will eventually be won.
