The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, represented by Assistant Inspector-General of Police (AIG) Olatunji Disu, has disclosed that 140 police officers died in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) within the past year as a result of violent attacks, road accidents, and other duty-related incidents.
Disu made the disclosure while addressing police personnel and stakeholders, highlighting the risks and sacrifices associated with law enforcement duties. He said the deaths underscore the dangers officers face daily while carrying out their responsibilities to protect lives and property.
According to him, some of the fatalities resulted from attacks by criminal elements, while others occurred during operational assignments, traffic accidents, and incidents linked to the demanding nature of police work.
The police chief noted that the loss of such a significant number of officers within a year reflects the security challenges confronting law enforcement agencies and the need for continued support for personnel serving in difficult conditions.
Disu emphasized that police officers routinely place themselves in harm’s way to maintain public safety, enforce the law, and respond to emergencies. He said many of those who died made the ultimate sacrifice while carrying out their duties in service to the nation.
The disclosure comes amid ongoing efforts by the Nigeria Police Force to improve officer welfare, enhance operational capacity, and strengthen security across the country. Authorities have repeatedly called for better equipment, training, and support systems to help officers perform their duties more effectively and safely.
Security experts say law enforcement personnel in Nigeria often face multiple threats, including armed attacks, kidnappings, communal violence, terrorism-related activities, and hazardous working conditions. They note that road accidents and occupational stress also contribute to casualties among security personnel.
Disu urged officers to remain committed to their responsibilities while observing safety protocols during operations. He also stressed the importance of professionalism, discipline, and vigilance in reducing avoidable risks.
The Nigeria Police Force has in recent years intensified efforts to improve security in the FCT and other parts of the country through intelligence-led policing, community engagement, and coordinated operations with other security agencies.
Families of deceased officers have frequently called for enhanced welfare packages and support mechanisms for relatives left behind after the death of serving personnel. Advocacy groups have similarly urged the government to provide adequate compensation and healthcare services for police officers and their dependents.
The revelation of the 140 deaths has drawn attention to the challenges faced by law enforcement personnel and renewed discussions about officer welfare, workplace safety, and the resources available to security agencies.
Observers say the figure highlights the human cost of policing and the sacrifices made by officers in maintaining law and order. They also stress the need for sustained investments in training, equipment, healthcare, and operational safety measures to reduce casualties among police personnel.
As security agencies continue efforts to combat crime and maintain public safety, authorities say improving the welfare and protection of officers remains essential to strengthening the effectiveness of law enforcement operations across the country.
