The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) responded to recent concerns and allegations, shedding light on the ongoing force reorganization designed to maintain effective, professional, and accountable policing.
The strategic transfer of officers, particularly those with extensive service in specific states, is a vital initiative aimed at curbing overfamiliarity and elevating the quality of service delivery. Edo, Delta, Rivers, Akwa Ibom, and other states are currently undergoing this phase of reorganization, reflecting the NPF’s commitment to optimizing efficiency and accountability.
Addressing queries about promotion arrears, the NPF clarified that the delay is procedural and not indicative of neglect. The Force remains committed to ensuring timely promotions and corresponding arrears. This clarification primarily concerns officers promoted within the year 2023, whose entitlements were not initially considered in the 2023 fiscal policy.
In response to concerns about unpaid allowances and palliative payments, the NPF emphasized that palliative payment is a federal government initiative. The Inspector-General of Police has no direct control over the disbursement process, and any delays may be attributed to bureaucratic procedures in government disbursements. The NPF is actively collaborating with relevant authorities to address any issues related to allowances and palliatives, reaffirming its commitment to the welfare of its officers.
Regarding the alleged mass resignation of police officers, the NPF clarified that, as of the present, they have not received mass resignation letters from officers. Instances of resignation involve officers seconded to international organizations such as the United Nations, African Union, and ECOWAS, with opportunities for permanent employment in those organizations.
The NPF dismissed recent publications suggesting mass resignations as mischievous and potentially sponsored. Under the current leadership, the Force remains dedicated to the welfare of its officers and the overall growth and repositioning of the organization. Claims suggesting otherwise were urged to be viewed with skepticism.