๐ ๐ผ๐ป๐ฐ๐ฒ ๐๐๐ฒ๐ฑ โฆ2๐บ ๐๐ผ ๐๐ฟ๐ฒ๐ฎ๐ ๐๐๐๐ฝ๐ฒ๐ฐ๐ ๐ฏ๐ฒ๐ณ๐ผ๐ฟ๐ฒ ๐ฐ๐ผ๐๐ฟ๐ โ ๐๐ -๐๐ฎ๐ด๐ผ๐ ๐๐ฃ
A retired Commissioner of Police in Lagos has revealed that he once personally spent โฆ2 million to fund medical treatment for a suspect in custody before the individual was arraigned in court, highlighting the deep-rooted challenges confronting the Nigeria Police Force.
The former police chief made the disclosure while reflecting on his years in service, describing the difficult working conditions officers face daily. According to him, the decision to fund the suspectโs treatment was driven by both legal and humanitarian concerns, noting that a suspect must be medically fit to stand trial.
He explained that systemic inefficiencies, inadequate funding, and poor welfare provisions often place senior officers in morally and professionally challenging situations.
โThere are times you are forced to make decisions beyond official resources because the system simply does not provide what is required,โ he said. โIn one instance, I had to spend about โฆ2 million to ensure a suspect received proper medical care before appearing in court.โ
The retired CP lamented that many police divisions lack basic operational logistics, including functional vehicles, fuel, medical support, and modern investigative tools. He added that officers frequently contribute personal funds to carry out investigations, transport suspects, and maintain minimal operational standards.
He also spoke about the harsh realities faced by rank-and-file officers, including long working hours, delayed promotions, poor accommodation, and limited access to health care. According to him, these conditions not only affect morale but also impact the overall effectiveness of policing in the country.
Security analysts say the revelation underscores longstanding concerns about police funding and institutional reform. They argue that without structural improvements, welfare enhancements, and accountability measures, the force will continue to struggle with operational efficiency.
The former CP urged the Federal Government and relevant authorities to prioritise comprehensive police reform, improved funding, and better welfare packages to strengthen law enforcement and restore public confidence.
