Delta CP Conveys IGP’s Directives, Orders Zero Tolerance for Extortion and Strengthened Accountability

By Chukwunonso Eric, Warri.

The Commissioner of Police in Delta State, CP Yemi Oyeniyi, has reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to professionalism, discipline, and accountability, as he conveyed key directives from the Inspector-General of Police during a high-level strategic conference held on Tuesday.

The meeting, attended by Area Commanders, Tactical Commanders, and Divisional Police Officers (DPOs), focused on strengthening operational efficiency, improving supervision, and reinforcing ethical standards across the Command.

Addressing the officers, CP Oyeniyi charged them to rededicate themselves to duty and uphold the core values of integrity, professionalism, and service. He issued a strong warning against corruption, stressing that officers must avoid involvement in civil disputes unless there is clear evidence of criminal elements such as violence or homicide. He specifically reiterated that land ownership matters remain strictly civil in nature.

The Police Commissioner emphasized the need for proactive policing strategies, directing officers to adopt intelligence-led operations, deepen community engagement, and improve response time to incidents. He also underscored the importance of stop-and-search operations when properly conducted within the confines of the law.

On accountability, CP Oyeniyi held Area Commanders and DPOs responsible for all activities within their jurisdictions, insisting that policing must remain service-driven. He urged officers to treat members of the public with respect and professionalism at all times, while ensuring that all enforcement actions comply with human rights standards and existing laws.

The CP further cautioned against arrest by proxy, stressing that only individuals directly linked to criminal offences should be apprehended and investigated. He also condemned poorly executed raids, noting that inadequate investigation and weak prosecution erode public confidence and portray the Force as unprofessional.

Highlighting administrative standards, CP Oyeniyi directed that sensitive duty posts, particularly the Charge Room, must be handled by competent and professional officers due to their critical role as the primary interface between the Police and the public.

Reiterating a zero-tolerance policy on extortion and illegal checkpoints, the Commissioner warned that any officer found culpable would face strict disciplinary action. He added that supervisory officers would also be held accountable for failures within their commands.

The CP concluded by urging officers to demonstrate purposeful leadership, remain vigilant to early warning signs of criminal activities, and ensure that all policing actions are guided by the rule of law, discipline, and respect for citizens’ rights.

The directives were contained in a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, on behalf of the Delta State Police Command.