The operation was in line with directives issued by the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, aimed at curbing extortion, illegal roadblocks, and unprofessional conduct among police personnel.
During the inspection at the Rivers–Imo boundary, Adepoju explained that the exercise was designed to ensure strict compliance with approved operational standards, particularly for officers deployed for highway patrol duties. He stressed the need for professionalism and adherence to established policing procedures.
He further cautioned officers against any conduct capable of obstructing traffic flow or tarnishing the image of the Nigeria Police Force, urging them to remain disciplined while carrying out their responsibilities.
Adepoju noted that the number of checkpoints along the Imo boundary had significantly reduced, adding that any illegal structures discovered during the exercise were promptly removed.
He said, “We have directed that nobody should block the road. Officers should position themselves strategically and carry out stop-and-search operations without obstructing traffic.
“So far, compliance has been encouraging, and with sustained monitoring, things will get even better.”
The police commissioner explained that the inspection was part of nationwide enforcement of the Inspector-General’s directive, which also emphasizes proper dressing, visible name tags, and zero tolerance for extortion.
He added, “We are here in compliance with the directive of the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, who directed that we go round and monitor officers on duty to ensure they are doing well, are properly dressed, and have their name tags displayed.
“And also to ensure that they are not extorting members of the public.”
Adepoju warned that any officer found violating these directives would face disciplinary action. He revealed that personnel who reported for duty without proper uniforms or name tags had already been identified and would be dealt with accordingly.
“Those who are not properly dressed or whose name tags are not fixed to their uniforms have had their particulars taken and will be referred to their commanders for disciplinary action at the headquarters,” he said.
He explained that routine supervision remains a key responsibility of police leadership to ensure discipline and effective service delivery across all units.
According to him, the enforcement drive will be sustained, with commanders and heads of units instructed to intensify oversight of officers under their command.
Adepoju also appealed to members of the public to cooperate with police officers conducting legitimate stop-and-search duties, noting that their presence on highways is intended to enhance safety and security.
He further encouraged citizens to report any form of misconduct or extortion using official complaint channels, including dedicated phone lines, the Police Public Relations Office, and the control room.
“If anyone encounters an officer who misbehaves or attempts to extort them, they should report such conduct through the phone numbers made available on social media and other platforms, including the Police Public Relations Office and the control room, so that appropriate action can be taken,” he said.
Our correspondent reports that the inspection covered checkpoints along the East-West Road corridor in Ikwerre and Emohua Local Government Areas.
The commissioner was accompanied by senior police officers, including the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of the State Criminal Investigation Department, the Assistant Commissioner of Police in charge of Operations, commanders of the Mobile Police Squadrons, tactical unit heads, and Divisional Police Officers.
The exercise is part of ongoing nationwide reforms by the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, aimed at eliminating illegal checkpoints, reducing extortion, and improving professional conduct among officers.