By Sarah NEGEDU
The Commissioner of Police, Federal Capital Territory Command, Ajao Adewale, has condemned the practice of officers jumping into moving vehicles or dragging steering wheels with motorists, describing such conduct as unsafe, unethical, and damaging to the image of the Police Force.
“Condemning the unprofessional practice of jumping into vehicles of traffic offenders or attempting to seize control of their steering wheels, the CP described such actions as dangerous, unacceptable, and contrary to the ethics of policing,” a statement on Sunday by the command’s spokesperson, Josephine Adeh, stated.
The CP also announced the commencement of Operation Keep Traffic Flowing and said a surveillance team had been set up to monitor compliance with his directives, adding that any officer found flouting them would be sanctioned.
“The CP declared the immediate commencement of Operation ‘Keep Traffic Flowing’ and created a surveillance team to monitor the activities of all traffic officers, with strict instructions to arrest any officer found violating these directives,” she said.
This is even as the CP identified major traffic hotspots in Abuja and warned traffic officers against the unprofessional practice of jumping into vehicles of traffic offenders.
Adewale, who addressed Divisional Traffic Officers, Motor Traffic Police, and other operatives at the Command Headquarters, said the conduct of traffic personnel remained a visible reflection of the image of the police.
According to the CP expressed dissatisfaction with the current performance level of officers, stressing that traffic management was one of the strongest indicators of the civility of a city.
Adeh disclosed that after personally touring the city during peak hours, the CP identified about 30 critical traffic points, including Wuse, Area 1 Roundabout, Jikwoyi, Karu, Kurudu, AYA, Apo Resettlement, Gudu, Galadima, Dawaki, and Kubwa.
He directed that officers maintain strong visibility at these locations to ensure smooth vehicular movement.
“The CP expressed dissatisfaction with the current performance level of traffic officers, stressing the need for a renewed sense of duty.
“He emphasised that traffic is one of the visible indicators to measure the civility of a city, while traffic officers remain the first image of the police in any environment.
“On this note, he sternly warned them to maintain high standards of discipline and shun all unethical behaviours that can cause negative public perception of the Force in general and the Command in particular.
Adewale charged operatives to improve their service delivery by turning out neatly, reporting early to their duty posts, clearing obstructions promptly, and dealing decisively with motorists who drive against traffic or pick and drop passengers indiscriminately.
He urged residents to obey traffic regulations, respect officers on duty, and desist from offering inducements, which he noted were unlawful.
Adewale assured the public of sustained visibility and effective traffic management across the FCT.
