The Inspector General of Police, Olatunji Disu, has disclosed that no fewer than 140 police officers lost their lives in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) within a one-year period due to violent attacks, accidents, and other duty-related incidents.
Disu made the revelation during an interactive session with members of the Crime Correspondents Association of Nigeria (CCAN) in Abuja, where he highlighted the risks and sacrifices associated with policing in Nigeria.
According to the IGP, the increasing security challenges across the country have made the traditional shift system impractical, with officers now working virtually around the clock to meet operational demands.
“We no longer operate the conventional policing structure of morning, afternoon, and night shifts. Officers work virtually around the clock under very difficult circumstances. Last year alone, the FCT Police Command lost about 140 officers through violent attacks, accidents, and other duty-related incidents,” he said.
Disu noted that many police personnel continue to sacrifice their comfort, rest, and even their lives to ensure the safety of citizens and the protection of lives and property.
Despite the challenges, the police chief reaffirmed the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to professionalism, accountability, and discipline. He stressed that the Force maintains a zero-tolerance policy toward misconduct and would continue to sanction officers found guilty of violating established laws and professional standards.
“We have consistently demonstrated our commitment to ending impunity within the Force, and we will continue to address complaints against personnel professionally and decisively. At the same time, officers carrying out lawful duties must also be protected from harassment and deliberate misinformation,” Disu stated.
The IGP also pledged to strengthen collaboration between the police and the media, describing journalists as critical partners in efforts to improve public understanding of security issues and promote transparency.
He called for responsible and accurate reporting of security matters, emphasizing that effective cooperation between law enforcement agencies and the media is essential to tackling insecurity.
Disu further cautioned against the indiscriminate recording and circulation of police-related video content, warning that the misuse of such materials could undermine officers’ morale, distort public perception, and compromise ongoing security operations.
Earlier, the Chairman of the Crime Correspondents Association of Nigeria, Festus Fifen, reaffirmed the commitment of crime correspondents to supporting national security efforts through factual, balanced, and responsible journalism.
“We are no longer just reporting violence; we are part of a system working towards building a safer society,” Fifen said.
The engagement forms part of ongoing efforts by the Nigeria Police Force to deepen public trust, improve communication with stakeholders, and enhance cooperation in addressing the country’s security challenges.
