- Seven Police commissioners in seven years
How does frequent change of the leadership of a police command affect the operation and performance in a state as strategic as Lagos? PRECIOUS IGBONWELUNDU examines the situation.
In the last seven years, the Lagos State Police Command has witnessed a rapid succession of leadership, with seven different Commissioners taking the helm, some serving less than a year in this critical position. This turnover not only highlights the challenges faced by law enforcement in Nigeria’s economic capital but also raises important questions about stability, continuity, and the long-term vision necessary for effective policing.
Lagos, often referred to as the economic heartbeat of Nigeria, is a unique entity. With its bustling markets, vibrant nightlife, and relentless pace, the city attracts millions, both as residents and visitors. This dynamic environment demands a police force that is not only responsive but also proactive in addressing the multifaceted challenges of urban life. However, frequent changes in leadership can hinder the establishment of coherent policies and strategies that are essential for fostering a safe and secure city.
Background
Lagos State, Nigeria’s commercial hub, faces unique security challenges due to its rapid population growth, high urban density, and proximity to international borders. The daily influx of approximately 3,500 to 4,000 people heightens the demand for robust public safety measures. With a population exceeding 22 million and a land area of 3,772 square kilometres, Lagos grapples with significant issues, including a low officer-to-population ratio, high crime rates, and rising incidents of armed robbery, kidnapping, cultism, and sexual violence, including femicide.
According to security experts, addressing these challenges is compounded by frequent changes in the Commissioner of Police, which create instability and necessitate realignments of ongoing policing strategies. Each new appointment introduces different models and priorities, impacting crime reduction efforts and community relations. Lagos attracts over 27,000 police personnel due to its extensive resources, bolstered by the Lagos State Security Trust Fund (LSSTF), which invests in surveillance, vehicles, and police welfare. The state’s status as Nigeria’s economic powerhouse draws support from multinational companies and financial institutions. The prestige associated with leading Lagos, a complex and high-profile command, has resulted in seven Commissioners since August 31, 2017, each bringing varied leadership styles that influence public perception and crime trends.
The role of the Commissioner of Police in Lagos extends beyond mere law enforcement. It encompasses community engagement, crime prevention, and the creation of an environment conducive to economic growth. Each new Commissioner brings his own vision and approach, but the lack of continuity seems to be leading to an inconsistent implementation of policies that are critical to public safety. This inconsistency can erode public trust, making it harder for the police to build the collaborative relationships necessary for effective community policing. Moreover, the transient nature of leadership in the Lagos State Police Command raises concerns about the retention of institutional knowledge. Experienced officers often find themselves adapting to new directives with each leadership change, which can disrupt ongoing initiatives and diminish morale. A police force must cultivate a deep understanding of the communities it serves, and this requires stable leadership that prioritizes long-term goals over short-term fixes.
Seven commissioners of police in seven years
On August 31, 2017, CP Iwohimi Edgal assumed leadership of the Lagos State Police Command, taking over from CP Fatai Owoseni, under whom he had served as Deputy Commissioner of Police for operations. Edgal, previously the Assistant Commissioner overseeing the Command and Control Centre (C3) in Alausa, was appointed at the request of his long-time friend and former schoolmate, Governor Akinwunmi Ambode.
As Commissioner, Edgal implemented a controversial strategy to halt the use of police radio communications for disseminating real-time crime information, a departure from established practice. This move was rumoured to be a tactic to limit the governor’s access to crime updates that had been readily available during Owoseni’s tenure. Edgal focused on community policing and addressing issues such as armed robbery and cultism, making strides to enhance police-community relations. His tenure lasted until February 6, 2019, shortly before the postponed general elections, when he was succeeded by CP Zubairu Muazu.
Muazu, a respected officer, continued the emphasis on community policing and prioritised traffic management and accident reduction during his nine-month tenure. He was later promoted to Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) on November 14, 2019, and handed over to CP Hakeem Odumosu. Odumosu’s term was marked by significant anti-crime initiatives targeting kidnapping and armed robbery. However, he also faced challenges such as police brutality and public protests, notably the nationwide #EndSARS movement. He served until January 24, 2022, when he was redeployed following his promotion to AIG.
Following Odumosu, CP Abiodun Alabi took the reins, emphasising the use of technology to enhance security and address public safety concerns during various events. Alabi remained in the position until his promotion to AIG Zone Two on February 14, 2023. CP Idowu Owohunwa then led the command from February 14 to December 14, 2023, also receiving a promotion to AIG. He was succeeded by Adegoke Fayoade, who held the position until September 17, when he too was promoted to AIG and redeployed to Zone Two. The current Commissioner, Olarenwaju Ishola, now leads the command as it continues to navigate the complex security landscape of Lagos.
The scramble for Lagos Command
Within police and security circles, the competition for coveted postings, particularly the Lagos Command, is well known. Officers vie for these positions not only for the perks of barrack accommodation but also for the significant advantages they bring to senior ranks. For many, serving as Lagos CP is seen as a strategic step in planning their retirements. Historically, some Inspector Generals of Police (IGPs) and Chairpersons of the Police Service Commission (PSC) have favoured their protégés for the Lagos Command, often rewarding those who provide monetary or other benefits. This practice has fostered an environment of favouritism, complicating the appointment process.
Until the recent appointment of IGP Olukayode Egbetokun, the selection of Lagos CP often led to rifts between the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) and the PSC. Allegations surfaced that aspiring officers were required to pay as much as N20 million for consideration, while others leveraged political connections to secure their appointments. Political influence significantly impacts the turnover rate in these roles, as changes in government or political alliances frequently result in new appointments, regardless of a previous commissioner’s performance. Additionally, increased public scrutiny and activism, particularly in response to police misconduct, have led to heightened calls for leadership changes. Authorities often respond swiftly to public sentiment, resulting in a rapid turnover of leadership in the Lagos Command.
Impact on law enforcement
While change can often bring fresh perspectives, the frequent turnover of Commissioners in Lagos may be a double-edged sword. It is imperative that the authorities prioritise stability in leadership to foster a safer and more secure environment for all residents and visitors of this vibrant metropolis. Only then can the Lagos State Police Command truly fulfil its mission in a city that embodies the spirit of Nigeria. Although there is no fixed tenure for a Commissioner of Police (CP), the frequent turnover in leadership can significantly hinder the continuity of policing strategies and demoralise personnel. Each new commissioner tends to introduce different priorities and approaches, which can disrupt ongoing initiatives and erode community trust in law enforcement. This instability is particularly alarming in a city like Lagos, where effective policing is essential for ensuring public safety and fostering economic activity.
During this period of leadership changes, Lagos has grappled with a range of challenges, including rising rates of cybercrime, which have elicited varying responses from different commissioners. Some have prioritized community policing initiatives, aiming to build stronger relationships with residents, while others have adopted a more aggressive approach to crime fighting. The integration of technological advancements in policing—such as the implementation of surveillance cameras and data analytics—has also varied significantly among commissioners. These differences have had a direct impact on crime detection and response times, with some leadership styles enhancing operational efficiency and others struggling to keep pace with evolving criminal tactics. Overall, the frequent changes in leadership not only affect the effectiveness of law enforcement strategies but also shape public perception of the police, ultimately influencing the overall safety and security landscape of Lagos.
The lack of stable leadership within the police force can severely undermine efforts to build meaningful relationships between law enforcement and communities. Community policing initiatives rely on consistency and trust, which are difficult to establish amid frequent leadership changes. This instability can exacerbate tensions between the police and the public, particularly in a diverse metropolis like Lagos, where scepticism toward law enforcement is often prevalent. The relationship between the police and the community is vital for effective policing. Some commissioners have prioritised community engagement initiatives—such as town hall meetings and outreach programs—to foster collaboration and improve relations with citizens. However, the effectiveness of these efforts is often compromised by the instability of leadership, limiting their potential impact.
The way forward
The Lagos State Police Command must move towards a model of leadership that embraces continuity, community involvement, and strategic foresight. In doing so, it can strengthen its capacity to not only maintain law and order but also contribute to the overall development and prosperity of Lagos.
Security experts argue for the establishment of fixed tenures for Commissioners of Police in strategic states to enhance public safety and security. They propose that, except in cases of death, incapacitation, gross misconduct, or abuse of office, every Commissioner should serve a minimum of two years in a command. This stability could help maintain continuity in crime-fighting strategies and build trust within the community. Additionally, experts emphasise the need for better remuneration and an improved retirement package for police officers to reduce the scramble for coveted postings. Enhanced training and professional development opportunities are also essential to improve performance and accountability within the force. By implementing these changes, experts believe the police can foster a more effective partnership with the communities they serve, ultimately leading to safer environments for all.
