The Nigeria Police Force has revealed that no fewer than 140 officers died from violent attacks, accidents and other duty-related incidents within a one-year period in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), underscoring the risks and sacrifices associated with policing in Nigeria.
Speaking during an interactive session with members of the Crime Correspondents Association of Nigeria (CCAN) in Abuja, Inspector General of Police (IGP), Olatunji Disu, said policing in the country remains highly demanding, with many officers working beyond regular hours to meet growing security challenges.
According to a statement by the Chairman of CCAN, the traditional shift system is no longer practical due to the realities of modern policing and increasing security demands.
Disu said: “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 noted that many police personnel continue to sacrifice their comfort, rest and even their lives to ensure citizens can live and carry out their daily activities in peace and safety.
The IGP also emphasised that despite the challenges faced by officers, the Force remains committed to professionalism and accountability, reiterating its zero-tolerance policy on impunity.
“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,” he said.
Disu assured Nigerians that the Force would continue to strengthen engagement with the media to promote transparency, build public confidence and improve communication on security issues.
Describing journalists as critical stakeholders in the fight against insecurity, he called for sustained collaboration between the police and the media to encourage responsible and accurate reporting of security matters.
The Inspector General further cautioned against the indiscriminate recording and circulation of police-related video content, warning that misuse of such materials could damage officers’ morale, distort public perception and negatively affect ongoing security operations.
Earlier, Chairman of the Crime Correspondents Association of Nigeria (CCAN), Mr. 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.
Linus Aleke
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