The Enugu State Commissioner of Police, CP Mamman Bitrus Giwa, has warned senior officers against unprofessional conduct, extortion and degrading treatment of citizens. He also ordered stronger supervision and improved security for political activities ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Giwa gave the directives on Wednesday, October 21, 2026, during an emergency conference at the Senior Police Officers’ Mess on Agbani Road, Enugu. The meeting focused on professional conduct, accountability and election security.
The commissioner’s warning comes amid growing political activities across the state. Recent reports include calls for an investigation into alleged political violence in Enugu and efforts to protect democratic participation ahead of 2027.
Giwa Demands Professional Conduct and Better Supervision
The conference followed directives from the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu. He issued the directives during a virtual strategic meeting with senior officers on Tuesday, October 20.
Disu emphasised professionalism, respectful treatment of citizens and compliance with police social media policies. He also urged officers to adapt policing methods to current realities and improve preparations for election-related security challenges.
Giwa said officers could not perform their duties effectively without respecting citizens and obeying the law. He directed senior officers to take responsibility for the conduct of personnel under their supervision.
He warned that officers who engage in misconduct would face the consequences. The directive reinforces the need for discipline and accountability within the command.
The police leadership has also emphasised these principles through the launch of the Violent Crime Response Unit in Enugu. The unit supports responses to serious crimes while promoting professional conduct and respect for human rights.
In another recent operation, the command reported the arrest of five suspects and recovery of firearms. Such operations require effective supervision and adherence to established procedures.
Police Strengthen Preparations for 2027 Elections
Giwa also directed officers to improve security management for political and election-related activities. The command is expected to maintain professionalism while protecting candidates, supporters and members of the public.
The directive comes as political parties and candidates intensify activities ahead of the 2027 general elections. Enugu has recently witnessed debates about political participation, security arrangements and the treatment of opposition groups.
The state government has addressed recent incidents involving the Nigeria Democratic Congress in reports on events at Akanu Ibiam International Airport and the party secretariat. The incidents have drawn attention to the need for lawful political engagement and impartial security operations.
Meanwhile, security agencies previously assured residents of a peaceful local government election. Their preparations featured in a report on security agencies’ assurances ahead of the Enugu polls.
The Enugu State Independent Electoral Commission also outlined its preparations in a report on its readiness for the September 26 local government election. These preparations highlighted the importance of coordination between electoral authorities and security agencies.
Political stakeholders have also called for peaceful participation. The CRPP commended stakeholders over the conduct of the Enugu local government election, stressing the role of cooperation in maintaining order.
In addition, ENSIEC has urged residents to participate peacefully and avoid violence. Its position is outlined in the report on the commission chairman’s appeal to voters.
Police Must Respect Citizens’ Rights
Giwa stressed that police officers must carry out their duties according to existing laws and professional standards. He also warned against extortion and any treatment that demeans citizens.
The commissioner’s position places accountability at the centre of effective policing. Senior officers must monitor their personnel and address misconduct when it occurs.
These issues have also featured in community concerns about security operations. For example, Ugwuaji youths have called for an investigation into alleged harassment by armed men. Their concerns highlight the importance of lawful conduct and public confidence in security institutions.
Similarly, Enugu youths issued a 72-hour ultimatum over alleged armed men in Ugwuaji Forest. The development has renewed calls for transparency and accountability in security operations.
Beyond policing, political activities have raised questions about campaign regulations. A recent report examined the court ruling on ENSSAA’s political billboard fee, while the agency has also warned against violations of its poster ban.
The police are expected to enforce the law impartially while protecting citizens’ rights. Their conduct will remain important as political parties organise rallies, meetings and other campaign activities.
Conference Includes Ebola Health Briefing
The emergency conference also featured a health talk on the Ebola virus. Deputy and Assistant Commissioners of Police attended alongside Area Commanders and Divisional Police Officers.
Heads of formations, tactical and operational units, and other sections of the command also participated. The meeting brought together senior personnel responsible for supervision, operational planning and security coordination.
The health briefing comes amid increased attention to disease preparedness following the reported Ebola case in Abuja. Health and security agencies must communicate accurately and follow established response procedures during public health concerns.
Enugu authorities have separately strengthened preparedness measures, including surveillance around Akanu Ibiam International Airport. Residents can read more about the state’s response in the report on Enugu’s strengthened Ebola surveillance measures.
Police Reaffirm Commitment to Public Safety
The conference ended with a renewed emphasis on professional conduct, effective supervision and security planning. Giwa directed senior officers to ensure personnel follow the law and treat residents with respect.
The command’s preparations will be particularly important as political activities increase ahead of the 2027 elections. Officers must protect public safety while allowing lawful political participation.
Other measures affecting election activities include the state’s restriction of movement during the local government polls. The directive and its exemptions are explained in the report on Enugu’s movement restrictions for election day.
Political mobilisation has also begun across the region, as shown in the report on the NDC’s grassroots mobilisation across the South-East. Such activities underscore the importance of fair and professional security arrangements.
Transport groups have also become involved in political discussions ahead of 2027. The Enugu Keke riders’ endorsement of Mbah and Tinubu is one example of the growing political activity.
The police command has not announced additional details about disciplinary action arising from the conference. However, Giwa warned that officers who violate professional standards would be held accountable.
The press release was signed by SP Daniel Ndukwe, Police Public Relations Officer of the Enugu State Command, on October 21, 2026.
