New CP vows zero tolerance for crime, political violence in Jigawa
By Ali Rabiu Ali, Dutse
The newly posted Commissioner of Police in Jigawa State, CP Tijjani Murtala, has unveiled a 10-point security agenda aimed at strengthening policing, enhancing public safety and tackling emerging criminal activities across the state.
Speaking during his maiden press briefing with members of the media in Dutse on Monday, the Commissioner said his administration would focus on intelligence-led policing, increased police visibility, community partnership, professionalism, respect for human rights and a zero-tolerance approach to crime.
Murtala said he assumed duty with a clear mandate to consolidate existing security gains while introducing strategies capable of further improving the protection of lives and property in Jigawa.
He said the Command would intensify township and night patrols across the state, with special security arrangements during weekends and major market days to protect traders, customers, transporters and other members of the public.
According to him, joint security operations would also be conducted in identified flashpoints, vulnerable locations, suspected criminal hideouts and other areas requiring special attention.
“Our objective is simple: to prevent crime before it occurs, respond swiftly when incidents arise, and deny criminals the freedom to operate,” he said.
Police to Enforce Vehicle Regulations
The Commissioner also announced sustained enforcement of traffic and vehicle regulations, particularly against motorists using unauthorized covered, defaced or obscured registration number plates.
He said the Command would also take action against unauthorized tinted glasses, unregistered vehicles and other violations capable of frustrating security identification and law-enforcement operations.
Murtala, however, assured members of the public that the enforcement would be conducted professionally and in accordance with the law, without harassment or intimidation.
Fresh War Against Illicit Drugs
The new police chief declared that the Command would launch a sustained and intelligence-driven campaign against illicit drug abuse, distribution and trafficking.
He linked drug abuse to violent crime, youth delinquency, cultism, sexual violence and street violence, saying the Police would work with parents, schools, religious institutions, community leaders and youth organizations to tackle the menace.
He warned that suspected drug dealers and traffickers would be pursued and prosecuted in accordance with the law.
Murtala also pledged strict police neutrality in political matters, warning that the Command would not allow itself to be used for political intimidation, harassment or victimisation.
At the same time, he said the Police would not tolerate political thuggery, mobilization of criminal elements, destruction of property, violent campaigns or hate speech capable of inciting violence.
“All political actors are therefore encouraged to conduct their activities peacefully and within the confines of the law,” he said.
The Commissioner stressed that political differences must never be allowed to become a justification for violence.
Cybercrime, Cultism Targeted
Murtala further disclosed that the Command would pay particular attention to cybercrime, internet-enabled fraud, online blackmail, identity-related offences and other forms of digital criminality.
He said the Police would equally strengthen efforts against cult-related activities, including recruitment, initiation and violence, particularly among students and youths.
He explained that the Command’s approach would combine enforcement with prevention, awareness, counselling and engagement to encourage young people to channel their talents and creativity into legitimate opportunities.
The Commissioner described community policing as a major pillar of his administration, emphasizing that effective security could not be achieved by the Police alone.
He urged residents to provide timely and credible information on suspicious movements, criminal activities and emerging security threats.
Murtala assured members of the public that information supplied to the Police would be handled professionally and responsibly.
He also promised regular engagement with traditional rulers, religious leaders, political leaders, media organizations, youth groups, transport unions, civil society organizations, market leaders, community leaders, professional bodies and educational institutions.
The new CP said the Command would strengthen operational cooperation with sister security agencies and lawful local security outfits operating in the state.
He said the Police would improve intelligence sharing, joint patrols, joint operations and emergency response, noting that criminals do not recognize institutional boundaries.
According to him, coordinated responses were therefore necessary to effectively tackle security threats.
No Room for Police Misconduct
On internal discipline, Murtala vowed to strengthen professionalism, accountability and respect for human rights among police personnel.
He warned that misconduct, corruption, unnecessary use of force, abuse of office, indiscipline and extortion would not be tolerated.
“Police officers must understand that the uniform represents authority, but that authority comes with responsibility,” he said.
The Commissioner promised to support officers who perform their duties professionally while personnel found wanting would face disciplinary measures in accordance with established rules and regulations.
He also announced plans for continuous training and capacity development for personnel in intelligence-led policing, modern investigation techniques, human rights, crowd management, firearms handling, cybercrime, community policing, emergency response and leadership.
Murtala said the Command would sustain and strengthen its efforts against armed robbery, cattle rustling, theft, vandalism, gender-based violence, farmer-herder hostilities, communal conflicts and other forms of criminality.
He said greater emphasis would be placed on intelligence gathering and analysis, rapid response and the prompt conversion of actionable intelligence into effective operations.
The Commissioner also pledged attention to the welfare, motivation and operational readiness of police personnel, stressing that a motivated and properly equipped officer would be better positioned to protect the public.
The Commissioner sent a strong warning to criminal elements operating or planning to operate in the state, declaring that Jigawa would not be a safe haven for criminals.
“Our officers and men are prepared, our intelligence network will be strengthened, and our collaboration with sister security agencies and communities will be enhanced,” he said.
He, however, emphasized that the Police would pursue criminals within the ambit of the law and operate in accordance with the Constitution and other relevant laws.
CP Appeals for Public Support
Murtala appealed to residents to support the Police by refusing to harbour criminals or provide them with safe havens.
He urged parents and guardians to closely monitor the activities and associations of their children and wards, particularly concerning drug abuse, cultism, cybercrime and other harmful practices.
He also called on traditional and religious leaders to continue using their platforms to promote peace, tolerance, lawful conduct and peaceful coexistence.
The Commissioner urged youths to reject criminality and become active partners in building a safer and more prosperous Jigawa State.
The new CP described the media as an indispensable partner in crime prevention, public enlightenment, peacebuilding and community confidence.
He solicited responsible reportage and urged journalists to avoid sensationalism, misinformation and publications capable of unnecessarily heightening tension or compromising legitimate security operations.
He advised journalists to seek clarification from the Command through the Police Public Relations Office whenever security concerns arise rather than relying on unverified information.
Murtala expressed confidence that with the support of the state government, traditional and religious institutions, sister security agencies, the media, civil society organizations and residents, the state could achieve a safer environment for farmers, herders, traders, students, businesses, visitors and investors.
He assured the people that the Jigawa State Police Command under his leadership would remain professional, responsive, accountable and people-oriented, with its primary focus on protecting lives and property.
