The Assistant Inspector-General of Police (AIG) in charge of the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID) Annex, Lagos, AIG SIMEON U. AKPANUDOM psc fdc mspsp MNIM FCAI on Monday, 7 September 2026, paid a working visit to the Police Special Fraud Unit (PSFU) and the Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT), where he engaged officers on professionalism, discipline, effective supervision, operational readiness and strict adherence to the rule of law, National Association of Online Security News Publishers, NAOSNP can report.
During the visit, the AIG emphasised that professionalism, discipline and accountability remain fundamental to effective policing. He charged officers to conduct themselves in a manner that would uphold the integrity and reputation of the Nigeria Police Force, stressing that every police action must be guided by the law and established operational procedures.
Addressing officers at the PSFU, AIG Akpanudom underscored the importance of professional, diligent and thorough investigations. He urged investigators to have a clear understanding of every case assigned to them, including actions already taken, outstanding investigative steps and the appropriate direction for concluding each investigation.
The AIG cautioned officers against unlawful detention, arrest by proxy, and all forms of illegal duty stressing that the rights of persons involved in investigations must be respected at all times. He directed that all necessary legal procedures be followed, including obtaining appropriate court warrants where required and ensuring that persons in custody are produced before a competent court within the provisions of the law.
He further emphasised that searches and other investigative activities must be conducted professionally, lawfully and in accordance with established procedures. He noted that adherence to due process strengthens public confidence in police operations and enhances the credibility of investigations.
The AIG stressed that seizure of phones and other devices should only occur when they are instruments of offence thereafter to be sent for forensic analysis to support investigation, noting that police powers must be exercised responsibly and strictly within the bounds of the law.
While addressing officers of the SWAT, the AIG reiterated the importance of discipline, operational readiness, restraint and strict compliance with standard operating procedures. He warned against acts capable of bringing the Nigeria Police Force into disrepute and charged the officers to exercise the powers entrusted to them with professionalism, responsibility and sound judgment.
AIG Akpanudom also encouraged senior officers to continuously mentor, supervise and guide junior personnel, stressing that effective leadership involves not only giving instructions but also transferring knowledge, correcting shortcomings and ensuring that officers understand the laws and procedures governing their duties.
The AIG commended the officers for their dedication, smart appearance and professional disposition, noting that their commitment and conduct are encouraging indicators of a promising future for the Nigeria Police Force. He also expressed appreciation for the warm reception accorded him during the visit.
Responding on behalf of the two formations, the Commissioner of Police in charge of the PSFU, CP ELOHO EDWIN OKPOZIAKPO, B.Sc.MILD and the Commissioner of Police in charge of SWAT, CP OLUKAYODE AYILARA, appreciated the AIG for the visit and for sharing his wealth of knowledge and professional experience with the officers.
They assured the AIG of their commitment to maintaining and elevating the professional standards of their respective formations, while ensuring that their operations continue to contribute positively to the image and reputation of the Nigeria Police Force. They further pledged to uphold their formations’ presence in the news for the right reasons and through positive achievements.
The AIG urged all personnel to remain committed to the core values of the Nigeria Police Force, particularly professionalism, integrity, discipline, accountability, respect for human rights and service to the public.
AIG Akpanudom reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening supervision and professional standards across the FCID Annex, Lagos, while ensuring that investigations and policing operations are conducted in accordance with the law and in furtherance of justice.
The working visit forms part of the AIG’s ongoing efforts to enhance operational effectiveness, promote discipline, and strengthen professionalism across the formations under the FCID Annex, Lagos.
