Edo State Police Command Unveils Comprehensive Reforms to Combat Misconduct and Restore Public Trust
The Edo State Police Command has introduced a wide-ranging set of reforms designed to tackle unlawful activities and rebuild public confidence in the police force.
As part of the initiative, the Command has issued a warning to Point-of-Sale (POS) operators, urging them to exercise caution when dealing with individuals claiming to be police officers—particularly those operating from unmarked vehicles. This advisory comes in response to growing public complaints and widespread reports on social media alleging harassment and extortion by certain police personnel.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Monday Agbonika, announced the new measures during a strategic engagement with social media influencers on May 13, 2025, at the Command Headquarters in Benin City. The meeting forms part of the Command’s broader effort to collaborate with stakeholders and promote accountability, professionalism, and transparency among officers.
Among the key reforms is the immediate restructuring of the Anti-Money Laundering Unit, a special team that has faced scrutiny over allegations of misconduct. CP Agbonika emphasized that the Command will no longer tolerate corruption or abuse of authority within its ranks.
Address police misconduct, CP said, “All police officers—especially those in Tactical Teams, Area Commands, and Special Operations—are now required to have their name tags permanently sewn onto their uniforms. This measure is aimed at ensuring officers are easily identifiable and held accountable during public interactions.
To address concerns over the misuse of unmarked police vehicles, CP Agbonika has mandated that all such vehicles must display official police stickers on the front and both sides while on duty. This policy is intended to help the public easily distinguish genuine police vehicles from those being used by impostors.
Point-of-Sale POS operators are urged to verify and document the identity of any individual claiming to be a police officer—particularly those not in uniform or arriving in unmarked vehicles—before processing any transactions. This is to prevent abuse of financial platforms and ensure greater accountability.
The Command’s internal oversight unit, known as the X-Squad, has been tasked with ensuring full compliance with these new directives. Officers or units found violating the reforms will face strict disciplinary measures.
The Edo State Police Command has also reaffirmed its open-door policy and encouraged members of the public to report any incidents of extortion, harassment, or misconduct. Dedicated phone lines have been provided for this purpose.
In a statement released on Thursday by the Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Moses Joel Yamu, the Command reassured Edo State residents of its commitment to protecting lives and property without resorting to intimidation or abuse of power. He noted that these reforms mark the beginning of a broader, sustained effort to restore the credibility and integrity of the Nigeria Police Force.