The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Tunji Disu, has disclosed that at least 140 operatives of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Command were killed in violent attacks last year.
This is as the police chief cautioned members of the public against arbitrary recording of officers on lawful duties, saying the development could serve as a disincentive.
Disu who made the position known during an interactive session with journalists in Abuja, however, reaffirmed the resolve of the Force to sustain its lead role in the internal security architecture of the country.
He said policemen now now round-the-clock – under difficult circumstances – to meet the demands of the complexity and dynamism, which crime has assumed in contemporary society.
His words: “We no longer operate the conventional policing structure of morning, afternoon, and night shifts. Officers work virtually round 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.
“If you calculate the number of police officers who die annually across Nigeria while protecting citizens, you will understand the sacrifices they make to keep the country safe.”
Meanwhile, the IGP has charged citizens to apply caution in their quest to hold officers and men to account, insisting that democratic accountability does not entail irresponsibility, or harassment.
“Yes, accountability is important, and we remain committed to transparency. However, recordings and public engagements involving police officers must be done responsibly and should not be used to harass officers or undermine operational effectiveness.
“Police officers operate under extremely challenging conditions, often risking their lives to protect citizens and maintain public safety.
“It is important that public conduct and media coverage do not discourage officers who are committed to doing the right thing”, he cautioned.
On the circulation of old videos purportedly depicting new incidents, the IGP had this to say: “We urge members of the public and social media users to refrain from recycling old or manipulated videos capable of creating panic or undermining national security efforts. Such actions are harmful to the country’s image and stability”.