In a heartfelt demonstration of commitment to the welfare of police officers and their families, the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, PhD, NPM, has approved compensatory payments to the families of officers who tragically lost their lives in a motor accident on September 24, 2024. The officers, returning from special election duty in Edo State, were involved in a fatal accident along the Zaria-Kano Expressway in Karfi Kura while en route to the Kano State Police Command.
The accident, which shook the Nigeria Police Force, claimed the lives of five officers and left eleven others severely injured. The officers were part of a larger contingent deployed to ensure the peaceful and successful conduct of the Edo State elections, reflecting their dedication to safeguarding the democratic process. Their return, however, ended in tragedy, with the police vehicle they were traveling in colliding with another vehicle along the busy highway. The circumstances surrounding the accident are still under investigation.
In response to this devastating loss, IGP Egbetokun has taken swift and decisive action to provide support to the affected officers and their families. As part of the police welfare initiative, the IGP has approved **N10 million** each for the families of the five deceased officers, acknowledging the profound loss they have suffered. This payment is intended to offer some financial relief to the grieving families as they cope with the tragic death of their loved ones.
Furthermore, in recognition of the ongoing medical needs of the officers who survived the accident, the IGP has also approved **N2 million** each for the three officers who remain hospitalized, ensuring they continue to receive the best medical care available. For the eight officers who have been successfully discharged after receiving medical attention, **N500,000** each has been approved as a compensatory payment to aid in their recovery and reintegration into the Force.
This gesture underscores the IGP’s unwavering commitment to the welfare of police officers, particularly in moments of tragedy. Speaking on behalf of the IGP, the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, stated that the payments were not just a financial response but also a symbolic recognition of the sacrifices made by officers in the line of duty. "The IGP is deeply committed to ensuring that every officer, whether in active service or affected by unforeseen circumstances, is supported by the Force. This approval of compensatory payments is part of broader welfare reforms aimed at improving the lives of officers and their families, especially in times of grief," Adejobi said.
IGP Egbetokun further expressed his deepest condolences to the families of the fallen officers, describing their deaths as a painful reminder of the risks police officers face daily in the course of their duties. "These officers were dedicated, brave, and selfless in their service to the nation. The Nigeria Police Force will not forget their sacrifice, and we will continue to support their families in every possible way," the IGP noted.
The Inspector-General also prayed for the swift recovery of the injured officers, emphasizing that their health and well-being remain a top priority for the Force. He reassured the public that the Nigeria Police Force is working closely with medical teams to provide the necessary treatment to the officers still receiving care. Additionally, the Force is monitoring their recovery to ensure they can return to their duties when fully rehabilitated.
This compensatory gesture is part of the IGP’s broader reform agenda to improve the welfare and working conditions of officers. Since his appointment, IGP Egbetokun has reiterated that the welfare of police personnel is a critical focus of his administration. He has continuously emphasized that those who risk their lives in service to the nation deserve adequate support, not only during their active years but also in moments of tragedy and loss.
In recent months, the IGP has also rolled out several initiatives aimed at boosting morale within the Nigeria Police Force, including better healthcare services, enhanced insurance coverage, and increased compensation packages for families of deceased officers. These reforms are seen as critical steps towards addressing the challenges faced by the Force, including low morale and insufficient welfare provisions, which have long plagued the institution.
The IGP’s proactive response to the Kano accident is likely to be well-received within the Force, as it demonstrates his readiness to prioritize the well-being of officers. ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, who communicated the press release, added that the Force remains committed to providing a conducive working environment for its personnel, even in the face of difficult circumstances. He urged officers to remain dedicated to their duties, assuring them that their welfare would continue to be prioritized.
In light of the accident, the Nigeria Police Force is also taking steps to prevent future occurrences by reviewing the safety protocols for officers traveling long distances after special duties. This review, aimed at reducing the risk of road accidents, includes ensuring that officers have adequate rest periods, safe transportation, and medical support during their deployments.
The families of the fallen officers, who have been notified of the compensatory payments, expressed their gratitude to the IGP for his timely intervention. While no amount of money can replace their loved ones, the financial support is seen as a significant relief in these difficult times. The affected officers are remembered for their bravery and commitment to ensuring peaceful elections in Edo State, a legacy that will not be forgotten.
As the Nigeria Police Force continues its efforts to support those affected, the Force also calls on the public to offer their thoughts and prayers for the recovery of the injured officers and the strength of the grieving families.
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