Nigerians have criticised the Police Public Relations Officer of the FCT, SP Josephine Adeh, over her calls for the appreciation of the efforts of the Force by the citizenry.
In a statement on X on Thursday, Adeh mentioned that despite putting their lives on the line for the protection of lives and properties of Nigerians, the Force still face criticism.
“I’ve come to realise that police work is often a thankless job. Despite all we do, including risking our lives, we still face criticism from the public. Our officers are out there day and night, ensuring the safety of citizens, yet their efforts often go unnoticed,” her statement reads.
Her statement has, however, attracted severe criticism from Nigerians, with many alleging that the Force does not deserve commendation because of the prevalent corruption in the Force.
Chronicle NG highlights some of the reactions of Nigerians to Nigerians to the police PRO’s statement.
Tobi Akinbo J, “Madam, it is God that protects Nigerians, not police. You protect politicians; it’s understandable. You can’t reap thank you where you didn’t sow.”
Sayeen Mainamdu: “Madam police are only protecting politicians, while citizens are paying police to protect them, so nothing comes for free.”
Tonye Barcanista, “Maybe you will be appreciated when you focus on your real job instead of desperately seeking social media fame and validation.”
Prince Somorin Osifeso, “Madam, you knew the job before you applied for it. If you are after a cushy, safe job, then go apply to be a librarian. Only have to worry about paper cuts.
“I want selfless warriors in the police department, not people that want the public to kneel down and lick their boots.”
Maetrix Ogbu, “If it’s written in your job description on your employment letter that service users ‘must’ show police personnel’s appreciation after police services are rendered, then you may have a case.
“If it isn’t written on your job description, I am afraid to inform you that you deserve to be given a query for demanding appreciation of any kind from service users in order to carry out your fully paid jobs. Remember, you willingly accepted your job offer.”
Ifedolapo, “Well, I understand how you feel about not being acknowledged for your efforts, but you can only speak for a few good police officers, as the majority of bandwagons are the ones bringing down the efforts of the few good ones. Something has to be done to change the narrative.”
Henry Nwokedi, “Most of the officers on the road don’t know their jobs; they are only out there to make money from motorists. I don’t trust the Nigerian police, and to the best of my knowledge, they are not working or risking their lives for me; rather, they are busy risking their lives for the politicians.”
Joy Arewa queen, “The rogue policemen overwhelm the few good ones. The Nigerian police has to do a lot of PR to clean up its image.”
Nsuhoreidem Nyongidem, “I understand that receiving a salary at the end of the month is a way of recognising your hard work and dedication. It can be frustrating when someone receives a salary without fulfilling their responsibilities.”
Myke Peters, “The police force is ideally a noble profession and should be respected; however, the police force in Nigeria is nothing to write home about. You guys should work on yourselves first, please.”
E. Okaraka, “I’m very surprised this is coming from a learned person like you. If you’re doing well and discharging your duty well without exploitation and corruption, Nigerians that I know are very appreciative, but you rather work for our common enemies (politicians)”
Yusuf Lateef Onisona, “The responsibility of law enforcement goes beyond ensuring safety; it also involves maintaining trust with the community. Go by public poll or opinion, Nigerian police lack integrity and general acceptance.”
Mazi Joe Abuchi: “In Nigeria, the police is useless compared to other countries. In European countries, the police are respected like no tomorrow because of the law and order, unlike the Nigerian police out there collecting bribes here and there. So no regards to you people.”
Imiegha_moses, “But they get paid extra through extortions and illegal raids, which results in forced bail bonds. Don’t pretend you don’t know these things occur on a daily basis. The Nigerian citizens will not hesitate to cast their ‘no’ votes in a police referendum if it ever happens.”
