The Yobe State Police  Commissioner, Usman Kanfani Jibrin, has read a riot act against various extortion and the human rights abuses allegedly committed by some of the personnel in the state.

Jibrin said the warnings against extortion cascades the Inspector General of Police’s (IGP’s) directives on professional policing and standard best practice across the country.

In a statement issued on Wednesday in Damaturu by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Dungus Abdulkarim disclosed; “The commissioner convened a strategic meeting with the DPOs, HODs, Area and Tactical Commanders on professional policing and due respect of people’s human rights in the state.”

Addressing the officers, the Commissioner of Police commended personnel for their unwavering commitment and sacrifices in sustaining the fight against crime and criminality across the State.

He also cascaded the directives of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Disu,, issued during the recent National Strategic Conference with Commissioners of Police and the Force Management Team.

The CP emphasised the need for strict adherence to the Nigeria Police Force’s standard best practices, with particular focus on professionalism, discipline, zero tolerance for extortion, respect for human rights, responsible use of force and firearms, accountability in arms management, and the strengthening of community policing initiatives.

He, therefore warned that extortion and other unethical practices capable of eroding public confidence in the Police would not be tolerated, stressing that any officer found wanting would face appropriate disciplinary action

The police chief further directed officers in charge of stations and formations to ensure proper custody, supervision, and accountability of all arms and ammunition under their control.

Jibrin described discipline as the foundation of effective policing, noting that professionalism and adherence to established rules remain indispensable in the discharge of police duties and the maintenance of law and order.

He also tasked officers to strengthen collaboration with members of the public, particularly traditional rulers, community leaders, market associations, transport unions, civil society organisations, and other critical stakeholders.

According to him, community policing remains a vital strategy for preventing crime, gathering intelligence, and addressing emerging security challenges through active public participation.

The CP further directed all officers to prioritise the implementation of the Schools Protection Initiative by maintaining close collaboration with school authorities and conducting periodic engagements to enhance the safety and security of educational institutions across the State.

He reiterated the need to safeguard critical national infrastructure against vandalism, theft, and illegal procurement of public property. He directed officers to intensify surveillance and ensure the arrest and prosecution of both perpetrators and receivers involved in such criminal activities.

The Commissioner also expressed concern over the growing disregard for approved police dress regulations by some personnel. He cautioned against the unauthorised use of detachable name tags, desert boots, and other forms of improper dressing contrary to Force Orders, stressing that the appearance and conduct of police personnel significantly influence public perception of the Police.

He noted that the directives are in line with the Inspector-General of Police’s renewed vision of repositioning the Nigeria Police Force towards a more professional, accountable, intelligence-led, and service-oriented policing system, adding that officers in Yobe State must demonstrate these ideals through their daily conduct and service delivery.