FCT Police Tighten Security Ahead of Eid, IG Awards,  Democracy Day

With several high-profile events approaching—including the 2025 Eid-el-Kabir celebrations, the Inspector General of Police (IG) Award Night, and the June 12 Democracy Day—the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Commissioner of Police, Mr. Ajao Adewale, has rolled out a robust security plan aimed at safeguarding residents and visitors alike.

According to a statement issued in Abuja on Monday by the FCT Police Public Relations Officer, Superintendent Josephine Adeh, the CP unveiled the new security strategy during a high-level operational meeting with Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers (DPOs), and heads of Tactical Units in the command.

The CP emphasized that the purpose of the meeting was to fine-tune operational deployments, reinforce professional standards, and enhance accountability across all units in preparation for the influx of visitors and dignitaries to the FCT during the festive and ceremonial period.

“You must intensify security efforts within your respective Areas of Responsibility (AORs), especially at strategic entry and exit points into the capital city,” CP Adewale directed.
“Heightened visibility policing is essential, as senior police officials and other high-ranking dignitaries from across the country are expected to attend the Inspector General’s event.”

As part of the strategy, Explosive Ordinance Disposal (EOD) teams are to be deployed to sweep all worship and recreational centres, ensuring they are secure ahead of anticipated mass gatherings.

The CP also directed sustained intelligence-led raids on identified black spots, particularly areas notorious for illicit drug activities, stressing that such operations must be conducted professionally and free from abuse.

A critical part of the CP’s address focused on discipline, accountability, and ethical conduct among officers. He warned against all forms of extortion, cautioning that no officer should exploit their position for illegal financial gain.

“You must not be involved in civil disputes, especially land-related matters,” Adewale warned.
“Searches of mobile phones without a valid legal warrant or authority are strictly prohibited. Bail remains free, and any officer found collecting money for bail will be sanctioned under established disciplinary procedures.”

The Commissioner further ordered that all officers should be neatly dressed, courteous, and maintain a high level of discipline while interacting with members of the public. Officers were instructed to remain approachable and camera-friendly, thereby projecting a positive image of the force and encouraging public confidence in law enforcement.

In an additional directive, the CP mandated the crackdown on vehicles with fake or fraudulently obtained diplomatic number plates, stating that such violations would not be tolerated. He urged DPOs to maintain strict supervision over their personnel and ensure every operation under their jurisdiction was conducted with professional integrity and transparency.

To strengthen trust and collaboration between law enforcement and the public, CP Adewale also directed the initiation of youth engagement programmes across various communities within the FCT. The initiative, he explained, is aimed at promoting community policing and proactive crime prevention.

“Building strong ties with the community is essential. We must deepen our engagement with local youth, community leaders, and stakeholders to create a shared responsibility for safety and security,” he emphasized.

The FCT Police Command has assured residents that its enhanced security operations will continue throughout the festive season, promising swift and effective response to all distress calls and sustained vigilance in safeguarding lives and property.