IG Orders Restructuring, Sanitisation of SCID Kebbi
Linus Aleke in Abuja
The Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun yesterday ordered the immediate sanitisation and restructuring of the Kebbi State Command Criminal Investigation Department (CID), in a strategic move to enhance the effectiveness and professionalism of police officers attached to the section in the state.
He also directed that all officers currently occupying positions within the Kebbi State CID be reassigned to other commands, formations, and units, including training schools.
A statement by Force Spokesperson, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, said the decision was part of a broader initiative to inject expertise into the department, ensuring the most capable hands are in place to emplace modern policing ideals through standardised investigations and intelligence gathering in line with the provisions of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, 2015, the Police Act, 2020, and other relevant laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
The IG also stressed the need to carry out consistent training of officers involved in investigations, as a follow up to the workshop held with Heads of all Police Investigative Units in Abuja on the 11th of November, 2024.
This initiative, Adejobi said aligns with the IG’s commitment to specialise and standardise all investigative units within the Force, ensuring commitment to the rule-of-law.
“By implementing these changes, the Force intends to improve the quality of investigations, enhance public trust, and ensure that justice is served efficiently and effectively.
“The reorganisation of other investigative units within the Force will be carried out following the receipt of reports from the technical committees on the reforms.
“The Nigeria Police Force remains committed to transparency and accountability, dedicated to its mission of safeguarding the lives and properties of all citizens,” he said.
This restructuring, he said, will significantly contribute to the ongoing efforts to combat crime and enhance the security of our communities.
Also, the federal government, yesterday announced a joint operation and training exercise to prepare security forces to respond appropriately and adequately to security threats in Nigeria, in furtherance of efforts to combat all forms of crimes and criminality in Nigeria.
Announcing the new development in a statement in Abuja, Adejobi said the Office of the National Security Adviser in collaboration with the Nigeria Police Force, notified residents of the Federal Capital Territory and its environs that there will be a simulation exercise on crisis response around Idu Train Station.
According to him, “Members of the public are hereby enjoined not to panic as the exercise, which will come with heavy sounds of explosives, will be carried out in a controlled environment with no possible danger to residents as it is aimed at simulating response to emergency situations.”
Meanwhile, the police also reaffirmed their commitment to thoroughly investigate the recent tragic case involving the death of Priscilla Ocheme, a young woman who went missing after visiting her boyfriend, one Ekhousuehi Elvis, at his home in Goshen Estate, Pyakasa, FCT, on September 22, 2024.
Adejobi said Priscilla’s lifeless body was subsequently discovered, raising significant concerns.
Accident to him, “The case was promptly reported to the office of the Assistant Inspector-General Zone 7 Abuja, and Elvis, as a primary suspect, was invited to provide his account of the events leading to Priscilla’s sudden disappearance.
“However, instead of reporting as requested, Elvis proceeded to another police formation in Lagos State to file a counter-petition. In light of this development, and to maintain clarity and avoid duplication in the ongoing investigations, the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, ordered the IGP-Special Investigation Unit to take over the case, ensuring that it receives the attention and sensitivity it requires”.
Adejobi said that the primary suspect in the investigation, Ekhousuehi Elvis, and other suspects arrested in connection with the case are presently in the police custody where they are being interrogated.
“It is important to clarify that contrary to the rumours that have been circulating, Elvis or any of the suspects is not experiencing any form of mistreatment.
“The IG emphasizes the importance of justice and thoroughness in this investigation. The Special Investigation Unit is equipped to handle cases of this nature and will investigate thoroughly to uncover the truth.
“The Nigeria Police Force reassures the public of its commitment to transparency and diligence throughout the process,” the statement said.
Adejobi urged the public to disregard any form of calumny, as investigations progress, appealing that anyone with relevant information should come forward and assist the Police in ensuring Justice for Priscilla Ocheme and her family.
