IG Orders Tight Security Nationwide Ahead Of Presidential Inauguration

The Police High Command urged members of the public to continue collaborating with officers and men of the Nigeria Police and other security agencies to stamp out crimes, including terrorism.

The statement noted that the police had perfected strategies to prepare a safe and secure ground for hitch-free inauguration of new governments nationwide.

Meanwhile, the IG has warned policemen against involvement in land dispute, stressing that such cases should be referred to the court of law or for Alternative Dispute Resolution.

He frowned at the participation of police officers in land issues, which he said bred corruption, noting that land dispute is not a criminal matter that should be settled by policemen unless there is a criminal dimension to the case.

Arase at a meeting with Inspectors and the rank and file at the Force Headquarters, Abuja, on Thursday, cautioned his men against carrying bags for VIPs, insisting that this is not part of their job schedule as security personnel.

Apparently reacting to reports of policemen carrying VIP bags and luggage, especially at the airport and at public functions, the IG who flayed such conduct, stated that any policeman, particularly men of the Special Protection Unit, caught degrading himself would be severely punished.

The IG announced that 36,599 rank and file would be promoted soon, adding that the police management is also working hard to improve the welfare of men of the Force.

Presidential Inauguration: Jonathan, Buhari’s Teams Meet

In preparation for the May 29 handover and Presidential Inauguration, a joint committee of the outgoing and incoming government met on Thursday to discuss issues that will ensure a smooth transition.

The committee is co-chaired by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Pius Anyim, who represents the outgoing government, and former Bayelsa state Governor, Timipre Sylva, who leads the delegation of the incoming government.

The terms of reference for the Presidential Inauguration Planning Committee include drawing up the programme of activities for the inauguration ceremony; arranging invitation and accommodation of local and foreign dignitaries; drawing up budget for the programme of activities; organising the approved programme of activities; and co-opting into subcommittees persons that may be necessary to assist the committees.

Members of the Anyim led committee include; Chief of Defence, Air Chief Marshall, Alex Badeh; Ministers of the Federal Capital Territory, Bala Mohammed, Water Resources, Sarah Ochekpe, Aviation, Osita Chidoka, Culture, Tourism and National Orientation, Edem Duke, Lands, Housing and Urban Development, Akon Eyakenyi, Foreign Affairs, Aminu Wali, Interior, Abba Moro, office of National Security Adviser, Bello Fadile, IGP Solomon Aresa, Minister of State Defence, Austin Akobundu, Commander Brigades of Guards, A. B. Omozoje, and Mrs. Ibukun Odusote, Permanent Secretary, Presidency (Office of the Secretary to Government of the Federation).

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