By Seun Adams
The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Mohammed Adamu, has ordered the Assistant Inspectors General of Police in the seventeen zonal commands and their constituent Commissioners of Police in the thirty-six states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, to carry out full enforcement of the Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) Health Protection Regulations 2021.
The regulation was signed into law by President Muhammadu Buhari, on 26 January. They are to ensure full compliance with the regulations in their respective areas of responsibilities throughout the country.
The IGP gave the order to the Strategic Police Managers following the directives by the President as contained in the Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) Health Protection Regulations 2021 which mandates the Nigeria Police Force and other agencies of Government mentioned therein to ensure full enforcement of the regulations in public places – places of worship, workplace and schools, banks, public transport vehicles, hostels, boarding houses, detention centres, and general restrictions on gatherings as well as the use of face mask.
Mr. Frank Mba, in a statement made available to the media, said the IGP noted the uncertainty and risks engendered by the advent of the COVID-19 pandemic have placed additional responsibilities on the general public, calls on citizens to voluntarily comply with the provisions of the regulations for the safety of all.
He said the Police boss further cautions officers enforcing the regulations to show tact, compassion and empathy with the citizens.
He reiterates that the officers must be firm and professional and at the same time remain polite, civil and respect the fundamental rights of the citizens.