By Prisca Nguzo
Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State has advised the newly recruited officers of the Nigeria Police Force to carry out their duties with integrity, courage, and professionalism.
He informed them that policing is not a privilege but a sacred duty to protect lives, uphold justice, and defend the rule of law.
Uzodimma, represented by his Chief Principal Security Officer, CSP Shaba Adamu Gboyako gave the advice at the occasion of the passing-out parade of the 264 new recruits, held at the Police Training School, Nekede, Owerri, Imo State on Tuesday.
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The Governor further urged them to shun extortion, bribery and all forms of professional misconduct, adding, "the uniform you wear is a symbol of honour, sacrifice, and service. Do not soil it with corruption or misuse of power."
He said, "as you go into the field, let the values of honesty, humility, and fairness guide your actions. Avoid every form of corruption, bribery, and extortion. These vices not only destroy your reputation but also undermine the trust of the very people you are sworn to protect.
"Your duty is to enforce the law, not to oppress the weak. Remember that your conduct will either uplift or diminish the image of the Nigeria Police Force. So, go forth as ambassadors of discipline, service, and justice."
CSP Shaba while delivering the Governor Uzodinma’s address
And on community policing and inter-agency cooperation, the Imo chief security officer also enjoined the new Police recruits, "to embrace community policing; build trust with the people, engage traditional rulers, community leaders, and youth groups in your areas of assignment. The people are your first line of intelligence.
"Likewise, avoid rivalry or unnecessary competition with other security agencies. Instead, work hand-in-hand with the military, DSS, NSCDC, and local vigilante groups. Security is a shared responsibility, and success comes only through inter-agency cooperation and coordination."
While reiterating his administration’s unwavering support to all security agencies operating within the state, Uzodimma appreciated the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, the State’s Police Commissioner, Aboki Danjuma, his management team, the Commandant of the Training School, ACP Rilwanu Shaibu and the other school instructors for their commitment to professionalism, discipline, and community partnership which according to him has continued to restore public confidence in policing across Nigeria.
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"As the Governor of Imo State, we have maintained strong partnerships with the Nigeria Police Force and will continue to provide the necessary logistics, welfare, and operational backing needed to sustain peace and order in Imo State." he assured.
The event was attended by the IGP Egbetokun ably represented by CP Danjuma, representatives of the Abia State governor and Police Commissioner, heads of other security agencies in the state, top management team of the Imo and Abia police Commands, prominent traditional and community leaders, relatives and friends of the new recruits among other guests.
Highlights of the ceremony included presentation of awards to some distinguished and deserving new recruits and spectacular displays of march-pass cum parades by the new officers.
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