News
Jigawa Police Chief Vows Crackdown On Political Thugs, Drug Dealers, Criminals
The newly deployed Commissioner of Police in Jigawa State, Mr Tijjani Murtala, has vowed to strengthen the security architecture of the state, declaring that his administration would adopt intelligence-led policing and intensify operations against criminals, political thugs, drug dealers and other elements threatening public peace.
Murtala, who made the declaration on Monday at his maiden press briefing with journalists in Dutse, said the command would prioritise professionalism, discipline, accountability, community policing, respect for human rights and effective collaboration with other security agencies.
He said the command would intensify township and night patrols, strengthen weekend security operations and deploy special security arrangements to major markets and identified flashpoints across the state.
According to him, the measures are aimed at preventing crime, ensuring swift response to security incidents and denying criminals the opportunity to operate freely.
The commissioner said the command would also enforce existing traffic and vehicle regulations, particularly against the use of obscured or defaced number plates, unauthorised tinted glasses, unregistered vehicles and other violations capable of frustrating security identification.
He, however, assured motorists that the enforcement would be carried out professionally and within the confines of the law.
On the fight against illicit drugs, Murtala said the command would launch a sustained and intelligence-driven operation against drug abuse, trafficking, distribution and other activities associated with narcotics.
He noted that drug abuse was often linked to violent crime, youth delinquency, cultism, sexual violence and street violence.
The Police Commissioner said the police would therefore collaborate with relevant agencies, parents, schools, traditional and religious institutions and youth organisations to tackle the problem through both enforcement and preventive measures.
Murtala also warned politicians and their supporters against political thuggery and electoral violence ahead of the 2027 general elections.
He assured political actors that the command would remain neutral and would not allow the police to be used as an instrument of intimidation, harassment or victimisation.
He, however, warned that the command would not tolerate the mobilisation of criminal elements, destruction of property, violent campaigns or hate speech capable of inciting violence.
“Political differences must never become a justification for violence,” he said.
The commissioner further disclosed that the command would intensify its fight against cybercrime, internet-enabled fraud, online blackmail, identity-related offences and cult-related activities, particularly among young people.
He said the command’s approach would combine enforcement with public awareness, counselling and engagement with youths.
Murtala said community policing would remain one of the major pillars of his administration, stressing that effective security could not be achieved without the active participation of residents.
He urged members of the public to provide timely and credible information on suspicious movements, criminal activities and emerging security threats.
He also pledged to strengthen engagement with traditional rulers, religious leaders, political leaders, market associations, transport unions, youth organisations, civil society groups, professional bodies and educational institutions.
Mr Murtala said the command would deepen operational cooperation with sister security agencies through intelligence sharing, joint patrols, joint operations and coordinated emergency responses.
He further warned police personnel against corruption, extortion, abuse of office, unnecessary use of force and other acts capable of tarnishing the image of the Nigeria Police Force.
According to him, officers who discharge their responsibilities professionally would be supported, while those found guilty of misconduct would face disciplinary action in line with established regulations.
Murtala also announced plans for continuous training and capacity development of personnel in intelligence-led policing, modern investigative techniques, human rights, crowd management, firearms handling, cybercrime, emergency response and community policing.
He said the command would sustain its operations against armed robbery, cattle rustling, theft, vandalism, gender-based violence, farmer-herder conflicts, communal clashes and other forms of criminality.
The commissioner also promised to strengthen intelligence gathering and rapid response mechanisms, while paying greater attention to the welfare, motivation and operational readiness of police personnel.
He appealed to residents not to harbour criminals or provide them with safe havens, urging parents and guardians to pay greater attention to the activities and associations of their children and wards.
He similarly called on traditional and religious leaders to continue using their platforms to promote peace, tolerance, lawful conduct and peaceful coexistence.
Addressing criminal elements, Murtala declared that Jigawa State would not be allowed to become a safe haven for criminals.
“Our officers and men are prepared, our intelligence network will be strengthened, and our collaboration with sister security agencies and communities will be enhanced,” he said.
The commissioner, however, assured residents that the command would operate within the provisions of the Constitution and other relevant laws.
Murtala described the media as a critical partner in crime prevention, peace building and public enlightenment, urging journalists to promote responsible reportage and avoid publishing unverified information capable of heightening tension or compromising security operations.
He advised journalists to seek clarification from the command through the police public relations officer whenever they require confirmation of security-related information.
The Commissioner expressed confidence that with the cooperation of the state government, traditional institutions, religious leaders, sister security agencies, the media and residents, the command would build on existing security gains and create a safer environment for farmers, herders, traders, students, businesses and investors.
He assured the people of Jigawa State that under his leadership, the command would remain professional, responsive, accountable and committed to the protection of lives and property.
Related
