Acting IG of Police Orders Removal of Re-emerging Roadblocks
The Acting Inspector-General of Police, Suleiman Abba, has stated that the order banning the setting up of Police roadblocks nationwide is still strictly in force.
In a statement released by the Spokesperson of the security agency, Emmanuel Ojukwu, on Sunday, Abba has directed all commands of the Force nationwide to immediately dismantle all roadblocks and permanent checkpoints set up by members of the force.
The order was duly re-inforced as illegal roadblocks are being reset in some parts of the country, especially in the South-East, South-South and South-West geo-political zones of Nigeria.
According to Ojukwu, Abba described the re-emergence of roadblocks as a serious violation of standing order and threatened severe sanctions on any police commands, formations and personnel who violate the order.
In the statement, the Nigeria Police Force also restated its resolve to work towards achieving peace in the nation.
“As peace officers and frontliners in the drive for a peaceful world, the Nigeria Police understands the dislocation and trauma that happen to families, homes, cities and businesses in the event of disturbances.
“In line with the above, the Nigeria Police will train more officers on conflict resolution, mediation and negotiation. Our Family Units and Juvenile Welfare Centres will be reinvigorated to cater for the needs of hurting family members, widows, orphans, displaced persons and the vulnerable.
“The Police will pay more diligent attention to early warning signs and improve response time to crises and distress calls.
“The Inspector-General of Police, Ag. IGP Suleiman Abba urges all citizens to embrace peace at all times, and to assist law enforcement agents in the preservation and maintenance of peace nationwide.”
