The Commissioner of Police in Lagos State, CP Fatai Tijani, has outlined a sweeping security strategy aimed at tackling crime, restoring public trust, and enforcing discipline within the police force.Speaking during a briefing with officers at the Police Officers’ Mess in Ikeja on Friday, Tijani emphasized a renewed commitment to what he described as policing with humility and integrity.
The Commissioner stressed that modern policing must prioritize service to the public rather than authority over citizens. He noted that the era of officers acting as “lords” over the people is over, aligning his approach with global best practices in community policing.
According to him, officers must remain approachable, respectful, and professional, adding that integrity would be the cornerstone of rebuilding trust between the police and residents.
Tijani highlighted the importance of “visibility policing,” directing officers to maintain a strong presence across communities. He explained that increased patrols and strategic deployment would deter criminal activity.
He also announced that raids on identified criminal hotspots, commonly referred to as “black spots”, would be intensified and conducted daily to rid communities of criminal elements.
The Commissioner revealed plans to reactivate convoy patrols across area commands in the state. With government-provided vehicles available, he said officers would be deployed in coordinated patrol units to monitor and respond swiftly to incidents.
These patrols, he added, would also target emerging threats such as land grabbing, which he described as a growing concern in Lagos.
Crackdown on Land Grabbing and Cultism
Tijani issued a strong warning to land grabbers, declaring that such activities would no longer be tolerated. He linked the menace to organized groups, including cultists, who often facilitate illegal land seizures.He identified areas experiencing heightened cult-related activities and assured residents that the police would intensify operations to dismantle such networks and restore order.
In a major highlight of his address, the police chief declared a zero-tolerance policy on extortion by officers. He urged members of the public to report any incidents of bribery or unlawful demands for money.Tijani assured that any officer found guilty would face strict disciplinary action, adding that such cases would be handled transparently to serve as a deterrent.
The Commissioner also clarified that the police would no longer entertain purely civil disputes, directing that such cases be resolved through appropriate legal channels rather than police intervention.
He further encouraged citizens to report misconduct by any law enforcement or related agencies, promising that complaints would be investigated and offenders held accountable.
Reaffirming his leadership stance, Tijani said officers would be held to higher standards of professionalism, dedication, and accountability. He pledged to ensure that policing in Lagos reflects discipline, respect for human rights, and adherence to the rule of law.