The Commissioner of Police in Delta State, CP Yemi Oyeniyi, has directed Area Commanders and Divisional Police Officers (DPOs) across the state to provide maximum security for churches, mosques, schools and correctional centres, while also intensifying community engagement and enforcing discipline among officers.
The directive was issued on Wednesday during a strategic meeting convened by the police commissioner with senior officers of the command at the Delta State Police Command headquarters.
The State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, disclosed this in a statement issued on Wednesday, obtained by Africa Investigative Magazine, AFIMAG.
The meeting was attended by members of the command management team, Area Commanders, Tactical Commanders, DPOs and Heads of Departments.
Addressing the officers, CP Oyeniyi stressed the importance of strict adherence to the rules and regulations guiding the conduct of personnel of the Nigeria Police Force. He warned that professional misconduct would not be tolerated and stated that supervising officers would be held vicariously liable for the actions of officers under their command.
The police commissioner also expressed concern over what he described as inadequate community engagement by some DPOs. He directed all divisional heads to strengthen collaboration with critical stakeholders within their areas of responsibility and sensitise residents on the need to remain security-conscious.
Oyeniyi further noted a rise in murder cases across the state and urged DPOs to engage communities on peaceful conflict resolution and the dangers of allowing disputes to escalate into violence.
As part of measures to enhance public safety, the CP ordered all Area Commanders and DPOs to identify schools, churches, mosques and correctional facilities within their jurisdictions and ensure adequate security coverage, including regular visits to the institutions.
He also charged officers to maintain high standards of appearance and professionalism, directing that all personnel must appear neat and properly dressed while on duty.
According to him, any officer found without a name tag on their uniform or approved tactical vest would face sanctions, while the supervising officer would also be held accountable.
The command said the measures were aimed at strengthening security, improving police-community relations and promoting professionalism among officers across Delta State.
