Jonathan Towuru, the Assistant Inspector General of Police, AIG, for Zone Six in Calabar, urged recently promoted Assistant Superintendents of Police to embody practical leadership qualities and uphold police discipline.
Addressing 47 Assistant Superintendents of Police during their official induction at the Zonal Command Officers Mess, Towuru emphasized the need for them to comprehend the increased responsibilities accompanying their new roles.
In his counsel to the new ASPs, Towuru stated, “I urge you to recognize that you are leaders of the rank and file within the police units you are assigned to. You must embrace this leadership role as you may be deployed to any part of the country. Upholding police discipline is paramount.”
“Several police officers tend to neglect their health. It’s crucial for them to heed medical advice, undergo regular checkups, exercise, and maintain a healthy diet,” he added.
He also cautioned them to adhere to the standards and regulations established within the Officers’ Mess.
Former Commissioner of Police, Gabriel Achong, shared his concern about the decline in discipline and the substandard official dressing observed within the force.
“A significant number of policemen exhibit poor dressing in their official uniforms, wearing slippers and unkempt attire during official hours.”
“In the past, Calabar had 10 police divisions overseen by an ASP. Hence, discipline is imperative in leading the rank and file. Avoid favoritism and refrain from undermining the job and the system,” Achong emphasized.
DCP Abayomi Shogunle, the President of the Mess, described the Officers’ Mess as a place where every move could be considered an offense, emphasizing its significance for every police officer. He noted the existence of three levels of Mess: Officers, Inspectors, and the Rank and File Mess.
Representing the inductees, ASPs Benedict Okwoche and Lucy Ejuba expressed their acknowledgment of the challenge posed by their promotions and induction. They pledged their commitment to working diligently to uphold the trust placed in them.
The 47 inductees were administered their oath of allegiance as part of the induction process.