The acting Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, says promotion in the Nigeria Police Force will henceforth be based on merit, as there would be no more special promotions.

Mr Egbetokun stated this while addressing officers and men of the Kano State Police Command on Friday.

The IGP further urged the personnel to shun extortion and other corrupt acts to enhance their public image in the ongoing fight against criminal elements in society.

“If you want prayers, you will get enough prayers in this job. And if you want the opposite of prayers, you are going to get it too. So, be mindful of that fact,” Mr Egbetokun said.

Mr Egbetokun disclosed that the Force CID would be reorganised so only qualified and competent officers would function in the department and state commands.

“Henceforth, only officers who can inspire public confidence will be given sensitive duty posts, such as commissioners of police, area commanders and DPOs. If you cannot inspire public confidence, you will not merit such positions.

“We must show commitment to professionalism. We must improve our relationship with members of the public. We must stop corruption and extortion in our system. It doesn’t pay us.

“Those who have been engaging in extortion, I want to ask you, how has extortion improved your quality of life?” the IGP said.

Earlier, the commissioner of police in Kano, Hussaini Gumel, said the command arrested over 150 criminals in different parts of the state.

He said a comprehensive security network had been worked out to ensure the arrest and prosecution of criminal elements in the state. 

(NAN)