Gombe Commissioner of Police Ishola Babaita on Thursday warned officers and men of the Force to beware of politicians with shady deals as the state moves closer to general election activities.
Babaita’s warning is coming on the heels of mounting tension among supporters of political parties in the State in preparation for the 2023 general election.
Addressing men and officers at the monthly interaction in Gombe, Babaita condemned the menace of maltreatment of civilians by some officers he described as bad eggs that risked being thrown out in due course.
“2023 election is fast approaching, we have been instructed to double efforts and play our role as law enforcement Officers and not to be lured by unpatriotic moneybag politicians.
“Human rights is sacrosanct and cannot be traded for anything at all. It is illegal and condemnable to use same arms and ammunition procured with civilians’ resources to still hound them, my command will no longer tolerate that,” he said.
“Remember we’re paid to ensure protection of lives and property. DPOs and Area Commanders should police with human feelings.
“All ranks and files are to cooperate to ensure fundamental rights are cherished.
“Let all shun all forms of corruption by doing your job diligently to the admiration of the citizenry.
“Don’t use firearms on citizens, they’re the ones paying our salaries to protect them, remember, no one is above the law,” he said.
