Lagos state Commissioner of Police Imohimi Edgal named ‘Policeman of The Year’ by civil society group

The Network on Police Reform in Nigeria (NOPRIN) has named Lagos Commissioner of police, Mr.Imohimi Edgal ‘Policeman of The Year’.

Coordinator of the group, Okey Nwanguma said Edgal’s clear and demonstrable commitment to police professionalism, transparent and responsible policing, respect for and protection of human rights made him a worthy recipient of the award.

He futher explained that this was exemplified in his first week following his appointment as the acting Commissioner of police in the state, saying:

“He displayed a rare act of non- tolerance for corruption and abuse of human rights when he promptly responded to a petition against a senior police officer and other officers under him alleging human rights abuse, corruption and misconduct.

 Edgal set up a multi-stakeholders panel (composed of police officers human rights and media representatives) to investigate the complaint.

He adopted and implemented disciplinary actions as recommended by the panel. By this singular action, he sent a loud and clear message to police officers in Lagos State that under his leadership, abuse and corruption would not be tolerated.

This is a radical departure from the prevalent culture of cover up of alleged crimes and shielding of officers accused of infraction.

Since Mr. Edgal’s appointment as CP, he has adopted innovative measures and strategies to combat crime. One of the challenges he inherited upon assuming office was the resurgence of crime in Oshodi which turned it, once again, into a no-go area for people at night.

In prompt response to public outcry over the frequency of this menace, Edgal deployed men of the Rapid Response Squad, RRS, to tackle these bandits. Many of the daredevil bandits were apprehended.”

In his remarks, Edgal thanked the organisation for their recognition and dedicated the award to the Inspector-General of Police, Ibrahim Idris who he said gave the Police all the incentives to ensure a crime-free society.

Source: Vanguard.