Chiemelie Ezeobi
The outgone Inspector General of Police (IG), Solomon Arase, on Wednesday said as the 18th indigenous IG, he left a legacy of getting justice in the most prompt, professional, and rule of law-compliant manner.
He said this in his valedictory remarks at the formal handing over ceremony to his successor, acting IG Ibrahim Idris, at the Force Headquarters, Abuja.
He said, “It is with a feeling of deep appreciation of the Almighty God that I address you on this occasion marking my formal exit from the Nigeria Police Force and transition of leadership to a new Inspector General of Police.
” Exactly 14 months ago, destiny reposed in me the fortune of being appointed the 18th indigenous Inspector General of Police. Today, natural sequence of history has not only occasioned the successful completion of my tenure, but has also beckoned on Ag. IGP Ibrahim Idris to step into the leadership space as the 19th Indigenous Inspector General of Police.
“You would recall that during my inaugural address, I noted that –
The task of blending our acclaimed quality human assets with quality leadership is the main challenge ahead of us, but it is one I am convinced we can surmount’.
“I also affirmed that on my part, I can assure you that I will provide the highest possible level of professional and responsible leadership, while trusting that you shall march hand-in-hand with me as dependable professional colleagues, to advance the fortunes of the force’.
“One year, two months away from this assertion and clarion call, I can proudly note two significant developments. First is that I feel professionally satisfied that I enjoyed very high level of diligence, loyalty, sacrifice and professionalism from all cadres of the force.
” This manifested in the great strides we collectively attained in our common march towards restoring the lost primacy of the Nigeria Police and bequeathing a police force of citizens’ expectations to Nigerians.”
MIORE TO FOLLOW
