Inspector General of Police, Ibrahim Idris has said additional eighty-two area commands would be created to boost operational efficiency.

Idris said this when he addressed policemen at the Police College, Ikeja during a two-day visit to Lagos, saying he has already written to the Police Service Commission,PSC, and was awaiting its approval.

According to him, changing the face of policing in Nigeria, policemen that are people-oriented with the satisfaction of the citizens as the primary focus.

Idris also frowned at the actions of some policemen, who took pictures with the self-acclaimed IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu, saying nationalism was key, as some officers were taking pictures with Nnamdi Kanu and this was someone that was challenging the unity of this country.

Speaking on the ongoing move to pass into law for the setting up of the Police Trust Fund, Idris said it was being done after realising that government budget alone could not cover police entire needs.

This Trust Fund would address the issue of funding for the police forever and this would help to carry out effective service.

He emphasised his zero tolerance for corruption and warned police personnel to shun collecting money for bail.

Idris also charged his men to respect the fundamental human rights of the citizenry, as well as their right to free speech and movement, saying section four of the Nigeria Police Act gives the police officer the right to arrest anyone that constitutes offence, irrespective of their rank.

Despite the rank, a constable can arrest a minister or anyone that contravenes the law of the nation but you must use that right judiciously.” he said.

The IG also paid a visit to the Oba of Lagos, Rilwan Akiolu, where he commended the first class chief for his constant partnership with the police.

Akiolu in his response emphasised that there was no shortcut in policing, lamenting that the budget for the police is grossly inadequate.