Key Takeaways
- Kogi State Police Commissioner Nazir Bello Kankarofi has urged the public to actively report any corrupt officers within his command.
- The Commissioner explicitly stated that paying for bail is illegal and encouraged reporting such incidents to the SERVICOM unit.
- Dedicated mobile lines have been provided for reporting police misconduct/brutality and for emergency cases.
- The command acknowledges past issues of police brutality and corruption, committing to zero tolerance under the current leadership.
- The SERVICOM complaint mechanism has been reintroduced, promising acknowledgment within 48 hours and resolution within 5-15 working days.
Lokoja, Kogi State – In a significant move to foster transparency and accountability, Kogi State Police Commissioner Nazir Bello Kankarofi has urged the public, civil society organizations, and journalists to actively report any corruption or misconduct by officers. Speaking during the command’s 2026 Customer Service Week, themed 'The Extra Mile,' CP Kankarofi emphasized the critical role of citizens in holding the police accountable.
The Commissioner unequivocally reiterated that paying for suspect bail is wrong and illegal. He implored anyone encountering officers demanding bribes or engaging in corrupt practices to promptly report them to the SERVICOM unit at the state police headquarters. This directive underscores a renewed commitment to eradicating practices that have historically eroded public confidence.
To facilitate direct communication, CP Kankarofi provided specific mobile numbers: 08107899269 for police illegal action or brutality, and 07038329084 or 08152195982 for emergencies. These dedicated lines offer accessible channels for immediate intervention and redress, signaling a proactive approach to community policing.
Acknowledging deep-seated challenges, Kankarofi openly admitted that police brutality, extrajudicial activities, and corruption have consistently undermined public trust. He stressed, however, that under his leadership, there would be zero tolerance for indiscipline or corrupt practices. The Commissioner affirmed the police's unwavering commitment to protecting lives and property without compromise.
He further noted a significant shift in operational capabilities, stating that past underfunding has been substantially addressed by the present government. This improvement, he said, leaves no justifiable reason for officers to engage in extortion or negative dealings. Kankarofi urged all officers to uphold accountability, professionalism, and respect for citizens' rights, reminding them of their fundamental duty to serve.
In a powerful statement reflecting a service-oriented philosophy, CP Kankarofi declared, "The members of the public are our bosses. It is from their taxes that we are being paid our salaries. We are not their masters, but rather we are their servants." This sentiment aims to reframe the relationship between the police and the community, fostering a partnership built on mutual respect and service.
Earlier, ASP Chikak Emmanuel, Acting Officer in Charge of the SERVICOM unit, announced the reintroduction of the Kogi State Police Command's SERVICOM complaint mechanism. This revamped system promises to acknowledge public complaints within 48 hours and resolve them within five to fifteen working days. Emmanuel highlighted that this mechanism provides a structured channel for residents to raise concerns, offer recommendations, and receive timely responses, enhancing service delivery and transparency.
Why This Matters
This proactive stance by the Kogi State Police Commissioner represents a crucial step towards rebuilding public trust and fostering a more accountable police force in Nigeria. By empowering citizens with direct reporting channels and a revitalized complaint mechanism, the initiative has the potential to significantly curb corruption and misconduct, ultimately strengthening the rule of law and improving community safety.