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The Delta State Commissioner of Police, CP Yemi Oyeniyi, has issued a strong directive to officers across the command, emphasizing strict discipline, zero tolerance for extortion, and enhanced operational accountability.
The directive was delivered on Tuesday during a strategic conference held with Area Commanders, Tactical Commanders, and Divisional Police Officers (DPOs), in line with the mandate of the Inspector-General of Police.
Addressing the officers, CP Oyeniyi conveyed the position of the IGP, urging them to recommit to professionalism and integrity in the discharge of their duties.
He warned against corruption and the misuse of police authority, stressing that officers must avoid meddling in purely civil matters.
“Officers must steer clear of civil disputes, including land ownership issues, except where there is a clear criminal element such as violence or homicide,” he stated.
The Commissioner also called for a more proactive approach to policing, directing officers to adopt intelligence-led operations, strengthen community engagement, and improve response time to incidents.
“Policing must be proactive and service-driven. Officers are expected to embrace intelligence gathering, effective stop-and-search, and closer collaboration with the communities they serve,” he said.
Reinforcing accountability within the ranks, CP Oyeniyi charged Area Commanders and DPOs to take full responsibility for activities within their jurisdictions.
“Supervisory officers will be held accountable for lapses within their Areas of Responsibility. Leadership must be purposeful and effective at all levels,” he warned.
He further emphasized respect for human rights, cautioning against unlawful practices such as arrest by proxy.
“Only individuals directly linked to an offence should be arrested and investigated. Any deviation from this principle will not be tolerated,” the CP added.
On operational conduct, the Police Commissioner cautioned against poorly executed raids, noting that inadequate investigations and weak prosecution erode public trust.
“All operations must be intelligence-driven and conducted in a manner that respects the rights of citizens. Unprofessional conduct will not be condoned,” he said.
Highlighting administrative standards, CP Oyeniyi stressed the importance of professionalism at critical duty points, particularly the Charge Room, which he described as the primary interface between the police and the public.
In a stern warning, he reiterated the command’s zero-tolerance stance on extortion and illegal checkpoints.
“Any officer found engaging in extortion or operating illegal checkpoints will face strict disciplinary action. Commanders who fail to enforce these directives will also be held accountable,” he declared.
The CP concluded by urging officers to remain vigilant and uphold the principles of lawful and responsible policing.
“Every action taken must be guided by law, discipline, and respect for the rights of all citizens,” he said.
