CYRIACUS IZUEKWE
The Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of the Force Criminal Investigation Department, FCID Annex, Lagos, AIG Simeon U. Akpanudom, has urged officers of the Police Special Fraud Unit and SWAT to uphold professionalism, discipline and due process in their duties.
AIG Akpanudom gave the charge on Monday, September 7, 2026 during a working visit to the PSFU and the Special Weapons and Tactics team in Lagos.
He said professionalism, accountability and discipline are critical to effective policing. He stressed that all Police actions must be guided by law and standard operating procedures to protect the integrity of the Nigeria Police Force.
Addressing investigators at the PSFU, the AIG emphasized the need for diligent and thorough investigations. He urged officers to have full knowledge of cases assigned to them, including steps already taken, pending actions, and the appropriate path to conclude each matter.
He cautioned against unlawful detention, arrest by proxy and other illegal practices. He directed that the rights of suspects must be respected at all times and that legal procedures, including obtaining court warrants where necessary, must be followed. He added that persons in custody should be presented before a competent court within the period stipulated by law.
The AIG also said searches and other investigative activities must be carried out professionally and in line with established guidelines. He noted that adherence to due process builds public confidence and strengthens the credibility of Police investigations.
On the seizure of phones and other devices, he said such items should only be taken when they are instruments of crime. He directed that they should be sent for forensic analysis to support investigations, and warned that Police powers must be exercised responsibly and within legal limits.
While addressing SWAT officers, AIG Akpanudom stressed operational readiness, restraint and discipline. He warned against conduct capable of bringing the Nigeria Police Force into disrepute and charged the officers to exercise their powers with sound judgment and responsibility.
He also called on senior officers to mentor and supervise junior personnel. He said effective leadership involves transferring knowledge, correcting errors, and ensuring officers understand the laws governing their duties.
The AIG commended the officers for their dedication, smart turnout and professional conduct. He expressed appreciation for the reception accorded him during the visit.
Responding, the Commissioner of Police in charge of PSFU, CP Eloho Edwin Okpoziakpo, and the Commissioner of Police in charge of SWAT, CP Olukayode Ayilara, thanked the AIG for the visit and for sharing his experience with the officers.
They assured him of their commitment to maintaining high professional standards and ensuring that their operations continue to enhance the image of the Nigeria Police Force. They pledged that their formations will be in the news for positive achievements.
AIG Akpanudom reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening supervision and professional standards across FCID Annex, Lagos. He urged all personnel to remain guided by the core values of professionalism, integrity, discipline, accountability, respect for human rights and service to the public.
The working visit is part of ongoing efforts to improve operational effectiveness and promote discipline across formations under FCID Annex, Lagos.
