Acting Inspector General of Police (IGP), Olukayode Egbetokun, yesterday, officially assumed duties, with a pledge to clear arrears of constables.

Appointed by President Bola Tinubu on June 19, Egbetokun succeeded Usman Alkali Baba, who had attained 35 years in service.

Handover formalities held at Force Headquarters in Abuja.

The new occupant and 22nd indigenous IGP, appreciated the President for the confidence reposed in him, stressing that the assignment is a calling to make a difference in the “shared mission to safeguard lives and well-being of everyone that lives in our great country.”

In his inaugural speech, Egbetokun also promised to uphold the rule of law.

He said: “Today, I am before you with great honour and a profound sense of responsibility as the newly appointed Inspector General of Police. I am most humbled by this opportunity to serve our great nation, and I am fully committed to upholding the ideals of justice, security, and the rule of law.”

“I want to thank Mr. President and Commander-in-Chief, Senator Ahmed Bola Tinubu, for the confidence reposed in me by appointing me to this position. Being appointed as the Inspector General of Police is not just a title for me; it is a commitment and a calling to make a difference.

“I am here not as an individual, but as a representative of a dedicated team united in our shared mission to safeguard the lives and well-being of everyone that lives in our great country. Together, we will strive to build a police force that reflects the values and aspirations of the people we serve.

“Nigeria, our beloved country, is at a critical juncture in its history. We face numerous challenges that require the concerted efforts of every citizen to overcome. As the Inspector General of Police, I firmly believe that our path to a brighter future lies in collaboration, transparency and the reformation of our law enforcement delivery system.”