Akwa Ibom Police Orders Arrest Of Unauthorized Officers Escorting Vips

The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has directed the immediate arrest of any police officer found escorting private individuals, politicians, or VIPs without approval from Force Headquarters. Commissioner of Police Baba Azare issued the order on Tuesday after a strategic meeting with senior officers in Uyo.

Azare said the meeting was convened to reinforce discipline and strengthen public safety across the state. He expressed concern over the rising disregard for the Inspector-General of Police’s directive prohibiting officers from providing unauthorised escort services.

He warned that officers found violating the directive would be disarmed, tried in an orderly room, and appropriately sanctioned. “Area Commanders and DPOs will be held fully responsible for the conduct of their personnel,” he said.

The commissioner also condemned the spread of fake news and misinformation on social media, noting that such content could trigger public panic and disrupt the state’s peace. He instructed officers to deepen community engagement, monitor emerging threats, and ensure the arrest and prosecution of individuals circulating false information.

Azare reminded officers of the Akwa Ibom State Government’s ban on masquerade activities, stressing that such gatherings have led to violence and public disorder. He directed Area Commanders, DPOs, and Tactical Commanders to strictly enforce the ban, warning that negligence or compromise would attract disciplinary action.

Addressing concerns over cultism, robbery, and street gang operations, the CP ordered Tactical Units, Area Commands, and Divisions to implement rigorous stop-and-search operations, intelligence-driven raids on black spots, and sustained surveillance on suspected criminal hideouts. He emphasised that these operations must be conducted lawfully and professionally, cautioning against unnecessary harassment of citizens.

Azare reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to maintaining Akwa Ibom as one of Nigeria’s most peaceful states. He urged officers to remain disciplined, vigilant, and dedicated to their constitutional duties, stressing that effective policing depends on professionalism, teamwork, and public trust.

He called on residents to obey the law and report suspicious activities to the nearest police station. The CP also assured the public that the Command would continue collaborating with other security agencies to sustain peace and security across the state.