By Ayo Kehinde
CP Hakeem Odumosu
The Lagos Command of the Nigeria Police Force has directed all Area Commanders and Divisional Police Officers (DPOs) to enforce all COVID-19 protocols as highlighted by the Presidential Taskforce on COVID-19 and the Lagos state government.
The protocols involve the personal ones such regular wearing of Face masks in public, maintaining social distancing, regular hand washing and use of hand sanitisers and the public protocols of avoiding gatherings, hosting events, 50 persons threshold for attendance at worship centres and informing the authorities of any case or outbreak of infections through the helplines distributed by the Nigeria Center for Disease Control, NCDC, and the relevant state government agencies
A statement on Thursday by the Police Public Relations Officer, in the state, SP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, said that officers have been directed by the Commissioner of Police, Hakeem Odumosu to enforce the use of face masks regularly at public places such as markets and malls, as well as, ensure that social distancing is adhered to.
“Also, the total closure of night clubs, bars, lounges, event centres, social party and street carnivals must be discouraged.
“The use of an infra-red thermometer to check body temperature, sanitisers and enforcement of the imposed curfew between 12 midnight and 4:00 a.m must be strictly adhered to”, he said.
Odumosu further ordered that all Area Commanders and DPOs to ensure the enforcement of the protocols in their various commands and stations across the state.
“COVID-19 is real and we must do everything possible within our reach to halt its spread”, he said.
The commissioner also warned Area Commanders and DPOs to adequately supervise their men for effective service delivery and kick against incivility, misconduct and indiscipline among the officers.
“Drunkenness, excessive or misuse of power, accidental discharge, extortion and other inappropriate behaviours as such, will not be tolerated in any way.
“Anyone found wanting will be heavily sanctioned within the ambit of the law” he said.
The State police boss urged the general public to be law-abiding, support security agencies for effective policing of the state and stay safe at all times as he bade everyone a Happy New Year ahead.
