Police Report 140 Officers Killed in Violent Attacks in FCT Over One Year, Disu Says

Linus Aleke in Abuja

The Nigeria Police Force disclosed that 140 officers died in the Federal Capital Territory during a single year due to violent attacks, accidents, and other duty‑related incidents, underscoring the high risks faced by police in Nigeria.

During an interactive session with the Crime Correspondents Association of Nigeria (CCAN) in Abuja, Inspector General of Police (IGP) Olatunji Disu noted that policing in the country remains highly demanding, with many officers working well beyond regular hours to meet escalating security challenges.

A CCAN chairman said the traditional shift system is no longer viable given the realities of modern policing and the growing security demands on officers.

Disu stated, “We no longer operate the conventional policing structure of morning, afternoon, and night shifts. Officers work virtually around the clock under very difficult circumstances. Last year alone, the FCT Police Command lost about 140 officers through violent attacks, accidents, and other duty‑related incidents.”

He added that many police personnel continue to sacrifice comfort, rest, and even their lives to ensure citizens can live and conduct their daily activities in peace and safety.

The IGP emphasized that despite these challenges, the Force remains committed to professionalism and accountability. He reiterated the police’s zero‑tolerance policy on impunity, assuring Nigerians that any officer found guilty of misconduct would be sanctioned in accordance with established laws and professional standards.

“We have consistently demonstrated our commitment to ending impunity within the Force, and we will continue to address complaints against personnel professionally and decisively. At the same time, officers carrying out lawful duties must also be protected from harassment and deliberate misinformation,” he said.

Disu assured Nigerians that the Force would continue to strengthen engagement with the media to promote transparency, build public confidence, and improve communication on security issues.

Describing journalists as key stakeholders in the fight against insecurity, he called for sustained collaboration between the police and the media to encourage responsible and accurate reporting of security matters.

The Inspector General further cautioned against the indiscriminate recording and circulation of police‑related video content, warning that misuse of such materials could damage officers’ morale, distort public perception, and negatively affect ongoing security operations.

Earlier, CCAN chairman Mr. Festus Fifen reaffirmed the commitment of crime correspondents to supporting national security efforts through factual, balanced, and responsible journalism.

“We are no longer just reporting violence; we are part of a system working towards building a safer society,” Fifen said.