Jonathan also
admonished the officers and men of the force to always enforce the law
“politely and properly without fear or favour''.
The President, who
was represented by Vice-President Namadi Sambo at the event, also
cautioned policemen against ''employing unnecessary violence and
accepting inducements”.
He noted that the
code did not only define the acceptable standards of behavior for police
officers and men in the performance of their duties, it also reflected
international conventions for Law Enforcement Agents.
Jonathan expressed
optimism that the Code would enhance internal discipline and uphold
international best practice in all the Police operations.
“Let me however
emphasise, that given the laudable objectives the Code of Conduct sets
out to achieve, its strict and across the board enforcement must be
given priority by the police high command.
“I believe that the code is simple and easy for all police officers and members of the public to understand.
“All police officers must be fully aware of its provisions and must strive at all times to live up to its standards.
“I remind you that
your badge is a symbol of public trust. You must therefore, enforce the
law politely and properly without fear or favour, never employing
unnecessary violence and never accepting inducements.”
Jonathan directed
that a quarterly assessment of compliance to the Code should be
submitted to his office to enable him to monitor overall improvement or
otherwise in the Police.
The President, who
commended the Inspector-General of Police, Alhaji Muhammed Abubakar, for
this exemplary initiative, also saluted Officers and Men of the Police
for their continued loyalty and courage which they had consistently
displayed in the discharge of their duties.
He reiterated the
determination of the Federal Government to transform the Nigeria Police
into an efficient organisation and to enhance its capacity to
satisfactorily deliver on its internal security mandate.
“In line with our
Reform Agenda, the Federal Government will continue to support the
Police towards improved service delivery to the nation.
“The government and
good people of Nigeria expect our officers and men to give their all in
making Nigeria safer for our citizens and visitors alike “I urge all
stakeholders, particularly the members of the public, to also adequately
support our police service.
“I believe that if
the current efforts are sustained, with the active support of all
relevant stakeholders and the general public, the Nigeria Police will do
much better in both service delivery and in the conduct of its
personnel.”
Earlier, the IGP
explained that the Code of Conduct was meant to instill discipline and
accountability in the Nigeria Police Force, ensure public trust and
confidence.
He assured that the
Code would be strictly adhered to and its implementation monitored for
the general good of the Nigeria Police.
Abubakar noted that
the Code highlighted the ethical standards expected of all members of
the Force irrespective of their ranks, describing it as “an Article of
Faith”.
Goodwill messages were delivered at the occasion by some State Governors and leaders of some Civil Society organisations.
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