A video of the Inspector-General of Police, Disu, addressing police officers has gone viral on social media, with the police chief condemning incidents of unlawful killings by officers and reminding personnel of their responsibility to protect the public.
Speaking to the officers, Disu said he was certain many policemen felt ashamed to wear their uniforms because of the growing public concern over police-related killings.
“I’m sure several of you are ashamed to wear the police uniform around town because of the killings, and I’m sure you feel bad about it,” he said.
The Inspector-General stressed that the weapons carried by police officers were purchased with taxpayers’ money and should only be used to protect lives, not take them unlawfully.
“The weapons we carry were purchased with taxpayers’ money, and we are paid to protect members of the public. We are supposed to protect them, not kill them,” he said.
He warned that the actions of a few officers should not tarnish the image of the Nigeria Police Force, urging personnel to remember the principles taught during their training.
According to him, police officers are taught that it is better to allow an armed suspect to escape than to risk the life of an innocent person.
Disu also cautioned against the reckless use of firearms in crowded areas, emphasizing that the duty of every police officer is to protect lives, uphold the law, and maintain the trust of the public.
