By Peter Onyekachukwu 
By Peter Onyekachukwu
The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Dr. Kayode Egbetokun, has cautioned newly graduated police constables across the country against extortion, intimidation, and corruption, stressing that their uniform should be seen as a symbol of trust, not oppression.
Egbetokun gave the charge on Tuesday in Calabar during the passing out parade of 693 recruits of the 2022/2023 Batch B at the Police Training College, Odukpani, Cross River State. He was represented at the event by the Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG), Auwal Mohammed.
The recruits, drawn from Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Benue, Cross River, and Rivers States, underwent six months of intensive training covering modern policing techniques, ethical values, human rights protection, community partnership, and practical fieldwork.
“Shun corruption, extortion, and abuse of power,” the IGP charged. “The uniform you wear is a symbol of trust. It must never be used to intimidate or oppress the people you are sworn to protect. Your success will be measured by the peace and confidence of the community you serve.”
He reminded the graduands that policing is not just a job but a sacred duty, urging them to let professionalism, integrity, and respect for human dignity guide their conduct at all times.
Egbetokun further revealed that President Bola Tinubu has approved the recruitment of an additional 30,000 constables to bridge manpower gaps and strengthen national security.
Governor Bassey Otu, represented by his Special Adviser on Security (South), Navy Commander Patrick Odion (rtd.), urged the constables to apply their training diligently, be approachable in their host communities, and serve as worthy ambassadors of the police and the state.
The Commandant of the College, ACP Dauda Gambo, expressed satisfaction that the training was completed without casualties. He charged the graduands to uphold the values instilled in them throughout their training.
Some outstanding recruits were recognized with awards. Wisdom Udofia emerged best male in drill, while Thelma Gregory received the award for best female performance.