Chukwu David 
Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, has advised the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, to “weed out” bad police officers from the system. He made the call at the maiden Nigeria Police Awards and Commendations Ceremony in Abuja on Monday night. The ex-Akwa Ibom State governor sought the cooperation of stakeholders to overcome the challenges facing the police “and build a stronger and more effective police force”.
He pledged the full cooperation and support of the National Assembly for better policing. Akpabio said: “The eve revolving landscape of crime and the increasing sophistication of criminal gangs pose significant obstacles. “More so, as we honour the good officers, let us weed out the bad ones because a chain is as strong as its weakest link. “It is crucial that we address these issues and work together to find solutions.
“The police need the support and cooperation of all stakeholders, to overcome these challenges and build a stronger and more effective police force.” He hailed the awardees and urged them to continue expressing commitment towards the development of the country. The legislator also praised the police hierarchy for organising the event. Akpabio said: “I congratulate the awardees who have excelled in their respective fields of policing.
“Their dedication, bravery and integrity have set them apart and made them deserving of this recognition.” Posthumous awards were also given to the seven police killed at Ughelli forest in Delta State on February 20. Akpabio announced that he would support each of the families of the deceased with N1 million to pay their way back home.
The Senate as a whole pledged to support the families with N20 million. Kano State Governor, Abba Yusuf, also announced a donation of N20 million to the families of the deceased. Vice President Kashim Shettima commended the Senate President and the governor for their “show of empathy” to the families.
