Lagos CP Tijani Fatai vows ruthless action against extortion, misconduct
The newly appointed Commissioner of Police in Lagos State, CP Tijani Fatai, has issued a strong warning to officers under his command, declaring zero tolerance for extortion, bribery, and other forms of misconduct.
Fatai, who assumed office on Thursday as the 42nd Commissioner of Police for the Lagos State Command, delivered the directive on Friday during a meeting with officers at the Officers’ Mess in Ikeja.Outlining his vision for a more disciplined and people-friendly police force, the CP stressed that no officer would be permitted to unlawfully demand or collect money from members of the public.
“Any officer caught in that web will be dealt with ruthlessly,” he warned.
He urged residents to promptly report all cases of extortion, bribery, or misconduct by police officers, task force personnel, or officials of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA).
Fatai assured that every complaint would be thoroughly investigated, with sanctions against erring officers publicly announced.The police chief emphasised that all cases must be handled strictly on their merits, using lawful means such as prosecution or alternative dispute resolution, without intimidation or illegal charges.“Modern policing must be anchored on humility and integrity. Police officers are servants of the public, not overlords,” he said.
“When police see themselves as lords over the citizens, we lose the respect and trust of the people. Our job is to serve with integrity.”Fatai noted that ethical conduct and transparency are critical to rebuilding public confidence in the police force.On operational strategies, he announced plans to boost visible policing by deploying officers to key strategic locations across the state to deter criminal activities.
“A visible police presence can prevent crime, as offenders are less likely to act when they know they are being watched,” he said.The CP also disclosed that convoy patrols would be reactivated across various area commands, supported by vehicles provided by the state government, to ensure sustained presence and quicker response times.Additionally, Fatai outlined intensified operations targeting cultism, land grabbing, and other violent crimes, including daily raids on identified black spots.
“These activities will no longer be tolerated. Our officers will be fully committed to enforcing the law,” he stated.He further cautioned officers against misusing police authority in civil disputes, warning that such matters should not be criminalised or exploited for personal gain.
Fatai reiterated his commitment to professionalism, discipline, and a service-oriented approach, making it clear that extortion and abuse of power would not be tolerated under his leadership.
