From Joe Effiong, Uyo
The Nigeria Police Force has promised to deal decisively with hoteliers in Akwa Ibom State who turn their hotels into hideouts for criminal elements to perpetrate electoral crimes during the forthcoming general elections.
The Assistant Inspector General of Police in-charge of Zone 6, Calabar, Cross River State, Okunlola Kamaldeem, who gave the warning at a security stakeholders’ meeting held at the Police Headquarters, Ikot Akpanabia, Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, said the measure was in line with the Inspector General of Police, Usman Baba’s zero crime tolerance policy for a safer Nigeria society.
Kamadeem, however, advised operators of hotels and others in the hospitality industry in the state on the need to be mindful of who they offer their services to, in order to free the society of crime and criminality, especially now that political activities, in lieu of 2023 general elections, heighten up.
The AIG also advised them to work in synergy with the Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC) in their various localities, and promptly report any suspicious person or movement in their environment to the police.
The AIG also warned politicians in Akwa Ibom to shun all forms of violence and thuggery which are usually perpetrated during elections as such would no longer be tolerated.
He said that rather than engage in such an ignominious act, politicians should be peaceful in carrying out their electioneering activities since election anywhere is not a do or die exercise.
He assured that the police would continue to perform their duty as specified by the constitution of the Federal Republican of Nigeria, adding; “We will do our best to ensure that the 2023 forthcoming general election is peaceful.”
He commended the State Commissioner of Police, Olatoye Durosinmi, for his efforts in maintaining security apparatus by reducing the crime rate to lowest in the state, and urged him to sustain the tempo.
AIG Kamaldeen charged men and officers of the Akwa Ibom State Command to be disciplined, respectful and shun corruption, stressing that IGP Usman Baba has zero tolerance to corruption.
He also advised them not to be biased in carrying out their lawful duties, but should relate well with members of the public to attract confidence.
While encouraging them to live above board in the discharge of their duties, AIG Kamaldeen assured that under his zone, those who perform well will be rewarded.