Amid escalating violence and widespread insecurity across the country, the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has announced the immediate deployment of a special squad to combat the growing wave of attacks by armed bandits and other criminal elements.
The police chief issued the directive during a meeting with Squadron Commanders in Abuja on Tuesday, where he highlighted the urgency of the situation after fresh attacks in Kwara, Benue, and Sokoto States claimed 21 lives. In recent weeks, multiple states, including Plateau, Benue, and Enugu, have been plagued by violent assaults on defenseless citizens, underscoring the need for swift and decisive action.
In his statement, Egbetokun emphasized the primary role of the Police Mobile Force (PMF) as a rapid-response strike unit. He instructed all PMF squadrons to maintain at least one fully equipped, combat-ready unit on constant standby. These units will be tasked with providing urgent tactical intervention whenever needed and supporting state commands in managing security challenges.
Additionally, Egbetokun announced that every PMF squadron would be required to send at least one unit for training each quarter. These training sessions will focus not only on operational proficiency but also on reinforcing ethics, professionalism, and the principles of responsible policing.
The IGP also revealed plans for a review of squadron sizes and reorganization to increase operational efficiency and agility. PMF commanders will be held accountable for the conduct of their personnel and must lead through regular inspections, lectures, and localized training programs designed to enhance discipline, respect for human rights, and operational excellence.
Furthermore, Egbetokun reiterated the decision to withdraw mobile police officers from non-essential escort duties. He expressed concerns that these assignments had diminished the PMF’s tactical effectiveness and vowed that indiscipline within the ranks would no longer be tolerated.
With these bold measures, the IGP emphasized the need to reorient the Police Mobile Force to focus on its core mission: confronting violent crimes, insurgency, and criminal violence. He reaffirmed the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to restore the PMF’s prominence as a model of tactical excellence and a formidable force in securing the nation.
