By Tony Okafor
The Nigeria Police high command’s recent admission that state governors are aware of all police activities in their states highlights the urgent need for Governor Chukwuma Soludo to address the unwholesome activities of rogue police officers in Anambra State.
The unchecked extortion, harassment, and molestation of citizens by these police personnel have created a culture of impunity.
Their frequent failure to adhere to proper dressing codes and lack of identification name tags are not only clear contraventions of police protocols and standard operating procedures, but also suspect and suggestive of a deeper malaise.
This blatant disregard for the law and public trust is unacceptable, especially given recent revelations that some of these officers are accomplices in high-class crimes, including kidnappings and human parts trafficking.
The devastating consequences of this distraction are evident in the tragic loss of lives and property in various parts of the state.
The criminals’ effortless escape without consequence raises disturbing questions about the police officers’ priorities, commitment to public safety, and potential complicity in criminal activities.
A stark illustration of this impunity is the Nibo Massacre, where 16 innocent lives were brutally cut short in broad daylight, mere meters away from the Anambra State Police Headquarters.
Shockingly, despite the proximity of the police headquarters to the crime scene, the perpetrators remain unidentified and unpunished to date.
This has only emboldened criminals, as evidenced by the subsequent killing of 7 persons in similar circumstances at nearby Ifite Awka, just a few days later.
As the chief security officer of the state, Governor Soludo has a constitutional responsibility to ensure the safety and security of his people.
We urge him to take immediate and decisive action to address this situation.
He should conduct a thorough and impartial investigation into the activities of police officers in the state, regardless of rank, and collaborate with the police high command to ensure that those found culpable are held accountable.
Furthermore, Governor Soludo should establish a clear and transparent mechanism for monitoring police conduct and enforcing discipline.
It is disturbing to note that some police officers view Anambra State as a lucrative business hub and retirement destination, which raises concerns about their commitment to serving and protecting the community.
Moreover, Governor Soludo should engage with communities to rebuild trust and ensure that their concerns about the police are heard and addressed.
The people of Anambra State demand a safe and secure environment, free from crime, harassment, and extortion.
We expect Governor Soludo to demonstrate his commitment to people’s safety and security by taking swift action.
His recent announcement to launch Operation UDO GA-ACHI is commendable, but more needs to be done to address the root causes of the problem and ensure justice is served.
The people of Anambra State await Governor Soludo’s decisive action against rogue police officers in the state and restoration of public trust in the police. Enough is enough.
