Emulate Lagos's example for friendly police force

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State on Sunday advised the Federal Government to embark on “strong and enduring reforms” of the Nigeria Police Force.

He stated this while highlighting his administration’s efforts to protect peaceful #EndSARS protesters demanding an end to police brutality and harassment.

The governor drew attention to a Sunday, October 4 tweet in which he condemned the police for attacking hapless Nigerian youths.

“The safety of our residents is my number one duty as the CSO of Lagos. So, reading reports of seemingly unlawful exploitation by the people charged to protect is very worrying & needs to be addressed immediately. Be assured that appropriate actions will be taken, & speedily too,” Sanwo-Olu wrote at the time.

Replying the tweet, he explained that his administration has adequately supported the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) of the Lagos State Police Command which has become “the definition of a friendly police”.

He urged the Federal Government to emulate Lagos’s model to make the police more friendly and accessible to Nigerians.

Sanwo Olu said, “A week ago, I spoke to the IGP (Inspector-General of Police, Mohammed Adamu) and there has been a lot of work going on behind the scenes.

“We thank the FG for listening to the voice of the people via peaceful but powerful protests showing the people’s commitment to protecting each other irrespective of gender or tribe.

“It is an undeniable fact that The Police Force needs strong and enduring reforms. A good example of a reformed unit is the Lagos RRS. With constant funding from the Lagos State Security Trust Fund and the LASG, the RRS is the definition of a friendly police.

“They are not nicknamed The Good Guys for nothing. They help to make our lives easier in many ways. This shows it is possible to reform the police. A more intelligent and empathetic force is needed.

“I thank the CP Hakeem Odumosu for ensuring that the Police in Lagos conducted itself properly during the protests.

“There is so much more to be done but we press forward in the bid to make our state safer. Lagos, I’m here. Let’s do this. Whatever it takes to make you feel safer.”