Austin Agbonlahor, outgoing Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG), Zone 16, Yenagoa, has urged Nigerians to regard police officers as friends.

“I want to especially thank the Bayelsa and Rivers governments, which have shown so much love for the newly-created zone,” said Mr Agbonlahor at a send-off organised for him by the zone at the Bayelsa Government House, Yenagoa on Sunday. “I want you all to regard the police as your friend and also to treat its operatives with kindness.’’

He also urged officers and men to be diligent in discharging their duties. The retiring AIG is the pioneer AIG in Zone 16, which comprises Bayelsa and Rivers. Mr Agbonlahor commended the police officers of Zone 16 for their cordial relationship and the warm reception accorded him.

“It is a good thing to retire in good health, to serve humanity and to serve the general public,’’ he said.

The retiring AIG, who just attained 60 years, spent 34 years in the police service. “One must prepare for his retirement early enough so that when it comes, it will be easy for the individual,” the police officer stated.

Mr Agbonlahor also urged police officers in the zone to sustain the performance template he set for them.

Bayelsa’s Deputy Governor Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, who represented Governor Douye Diri, said, “It’s quite unfortunate that the AIG is leaving when the zone needs him so much.’’

He commended the AIG for the diligent way he handled the #EndSARS protests and IPOB challenges. Mr Ewhrudjakpo noted that the “AIG never allowed protesters to come close to Bayelsa because of his professionalism in policing.”

(NAN)