The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has ordered the deployment of a special squad to address the growing violence across Nigeria, including recent bandit attacks in Kwara, Benue, Plateau and Sokoto States that have resulted in multiple deaths.
In a directive issued during a meeting with Squadron Commanders in Abuja on Tuesday, Egbetokun instructed all Police Mobile Force (PMF) squadrons to maintain at least one fully equipped, combat-ready unit on standby at all times.
This directive is effective immediately and aims to enhance the tactical response to escalating violence across various states, including Plateau, Enugu, and other affected regions.
Addressing his squadron commanders during the meeting, the IG stressed that the standby units must be prepared to provide rapid support to state commands in times of crisis, high-risk operations, or emergency interventions.
Egbetokun said, “The PMF was created as a strike force – to be swift, decisive, and combat-ready. Effective immediately, all PMF squadrons are directed to maintain at least one fully equipped, combat-ready unit on standby at all times.
“These units must be prepared to support their respective state commands in any situation requiring urgent tactical intervention.
Additionally, each squadron will be required to send one unit for training every quarter.
“These sessions will go beyond operational proficiency, placing strong emphasis on ethics, professionalism, and the principles of responsible policing.”
He also said squadrons will undergo size reviews and reorganisation to boost efficiency and agility.
Egbetokun further noted, ‘’Currently, squadron sizes will be reviewed and reduced to ensure operational effectiveness and agility. From this moment, PMF commanders will be held vicariously responsible for the conduct of their personnel.
“You are expected to lead proactively through regular lectures, inspections and localised training programmes that reinforce discipline, respect for human rights and operational excellence.”
Restating the withdrawal of mobile policemen from escort duties, the IG noted with concern that this has drained the PMF’s tactical effectiveness.
“As you are aware, directives have already been issued concerning the withdrawal of PMF personnel from authorised deployments. It is the duty of all commanders to enforce this directive without delay. A firm but gradual withdrawal from non-core assignments is underway.
“The priority now is to refocus our strength and personnel towards combating violent crimes and safeguarding national security. We will also inject new leadership perspectives, strategic approaches and continuous capacity-building initiatives aimed at restoring the PMF to its rightful place as a dominant force in internal security and a model of tactical excellence,’’ he stated.
The police boss declared that indiscipline among the mobile police officers will no longer be tolerated.
“The Nigeria Police Force will no longer allow the values, standards, and discipline that once defined the police mobile force to be undermined.
“As a strike force of the Nigerian Police Force, the PMF carries an immense responsibility to confront armed threats, insurgency, and criminal violence with integrity and courage,’’ added.