IGP Disu Visits Oba Of Benin, Reaffirms Commitment To Security, Community Policing And Police Welfare In Edo State

The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, has reaffirmed the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to strengthening security, deepening community policing, and improving the welfare of officers during an official visit to Edo State, where he paid a courtesy visit to the revered Oba of Benin and later addressed officers of the Edo State Police Command.

The IGP was warmly received at the royal palace by the Oba and members of his traditional council in what many described as a historic and symbolic visit reflecting mutual respect between the Nigeria Police Force and the Benin Kingdom.

Speaking during the visit, the IGP expressed appreciation to the Oba for his continued support for policing and security efforts in Edo State, noting that traditional institutions remain critical partners in maintaining peace and stability within communities.

He explained that beyond official duties, the visit was also to pay obeisance to the throne of the ancient Benin Kingdom, which he described as one of the most historically significant and respected kingdoms in Africa.
“As a student of history, I understand the rich story and heritage of the Benin Kingdom, and I hold the kingdom in very high regard,” the IGP stated.

The Oba, in his remarks, appreciated the visit and described it as significant, noting that it was uncommon for “a prince” to personally pay such a visit to the palace while serving as Inspector-General of Police.

The monarch also commended the leadership qualities of the IGP, particularly describing him as an officer skilled in unarmed combat and discipline, adding that such qualities would naturally inspire professionalism and confidence among officers and men of the Force.

The Oba further expressed optimism that some of the security challenges and unfortunate incidents previously experienced in parts of the country could now be prevented from reoccurring under the present leadership of the Nigeria Police Force.

Following the palace visit, the IGP proceeded to the Edo State Police Command Headquarters where he was received by the Commissioner of Police and senior officers of the Command.

Welcoming the IGP, the Commissioner of Police highlighted ongoing security operations across the state, including aggressive bush combing operations, implementation of community policing strategies, and strengthened collaboration with traditional rulers, community stakeholders, and local security partners.

The CP also commended the achievements of the Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU), describing the tactical unit as one that has recorded significant successes through the strategic leadership, logistics support, and personnel development initiatives introduced by the IGP.

He, however, appealed for additional logistics support, including more arms and ammunition, armoured personnel carriers, and advanced operational training to help officers effectively confront emerging security threats within the state.

The CP assured the IGP that officers and men of the Edo State Command remain committed to upholding the ethics, discipline, and operational standards of the Nigeria Police Force while delivering on the mandate of the Force leadership.

Addressing officers and personnel of the Command, the IGP assured them that their welfare remains a top priority under his administration.

According to him, improving the working conditions and well-being of officers is essential to building a more motivated, disciplined, and efficient Police Force.
“I understand the sacrifices policemen and women make daily in service to the nation.

Their welfare remains very important, and we will continue to do everything within our power to improve it,” he stated.

In an emotional moment, officers and personnel of the Edo State Police Command expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for appointing what they described as “a fatherly and compassionate Inspector-General of Police.”

Many officers noted that the IGP’s leadership style goes beyond policing, describing him as accessible, supportive, and deeply concerned about the professional growth and welfare of personnel across the Force.

The visit reinforced the growing emphasis on collaboration between the Police, traditional institutions, and local communities as part of broader efforts to strengthen public trust and improve security across Edo State and the country at large.