By Adewole Kehinde
“Peace is not merely a distant goal that we seek, but a means by which we arrive at that goal.” – Martin Luther King Junior
On 5th April 2024, The Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, authorised massive promotion of junior rank officers to their next rank.
According to a statement by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, nine thousand, eight hundred and thirty-one police constables were elevated to the rank of corporal, while eighty-one corporals were promoted to the rank of sergeant.
Also, six hundred and sixty-nine officers are elevated from the rank of Sergeants to Inspectors.
There is no doubt that the IGP is a man with a zeal to foster a culture of meritocracy and career advancement by reiterating the pivotal role of timely promotions in enhancing the morale of officers and bolstering the overall effectiveness of the Force.
Egbetokun believes the development will serve as cornerstones in sustaining the ongoing manpower development initiatives of the Nigeria Police Force. He, however, reassured that promotions in the Force will be solely on merit.
There is no doubt that the Police Service Commission is empowered by law to recruit, appoint, promote, and discipline police officers, but there is a need for synergy with the management team of the Nigeria Police Force
IGP Kayode Egbetokun is a man who is passionate about the promotion and welfare of police personnel, so therefore he cannot fail to decorate them with their new ranks after their promotions were approved by the Police Service Commission.
The IGP that promoted 10581 constables, others on 5th April 2024, cannot deny 4,449 policemen their decoration with a reason.
There is no doubt that the IGP has affirmed his unalloyed commitment towards the welfare of officers both serving and those that paid the ultimate price.
I recall the IGP saying, “New policies to promote the welfare of officers will be implemented in the months ahead. We will provide support structures for our police officers that will cater for their peculiar physical, psychological, and emotional needs as law enforcement officers. We will introduce unprecedented well-being programs to strengthen the hearts and minds of every officer.”
The Inspector General of Police is so passionate and committed to making officers and men of the force have a comfortable life; therefore, he can’t deny 4,449 policemen their decoration without a reason.
The IGP is a man of his word, a symbol of unity, transparency, and accountability. Since his appointment, he has demonstrated why he is the right man for the job. Through the posting of senior officers to head departments and formations, the IGP prioritises the federal character charter in the posting of Commissioners of Police and Assistant Inspectors General of Police. He also appoints Deputy Inspectors General of Police based on capacity and competence.
We all know that the judiciary is the last hope of the common man, but peaceful resolution.
A peaceful resolution is a way of resolving a conflict, disagreement, or issue in a calm, nonviolent, and constructive manner. It involves finding a solution that meets the needs and interests of all parties involved without resorting to aggression, hostility, or confrontation.
This can be achieved through effective communication, active listening, empathy, compromise, and negotiation.
The goal of a peaceful resolution is to promote understanding, harmony, and cooperation among individuals or groups, leading to a positive and sustainable outcome for everyone involved.
The 4,449 policemen who sued the Inspector-General of Police over delayed promotion should have gone for a peaceful resolution, as it helps in maintaining and strengthening relationships by fostering understanding, empathy, and cooperation among those involved.
Adewole Kehinde is the publisher of Swift Reporters and can be reached via 08166240846. kennyadewole@gmail.com @kennyadewole
