By Michael Ovat
The new Commissioner of Police in Anambra State, CP Nnanna Oji Ama, has declared zero tolerance for extortion, charging officers of the command on the need to do their policing job with the fear of God.
The declaration was part of the Commissioner’s assumption speech he delivered during a press briefing, held at the State Police headquarters in Awka, on Monday, August 10th, 2026.
Ama enjoined the officers to always make themselves available so that members of the public would be able to reach them easily.
He also warned against extra- judicial killing, adding that due process of the law must be followed in every case.
He equally charged Journalists in the state to be objective and responsible while discharging their duties.
According to him, “Today is indeed a significant day, and I am deeply honoured to address you for the first time as the Commissioner of Police, Anambra State Command.
“Upon my assumption of duty, I received comprehensive briefings on the security situation in the State. At the outset, I wish to acknowledge and commend the dedication, professionalism and sacrifices of officers and men of the Nigeria Police Force, other security agencies, and, most importantly, the good people of Anambra State for their continued cooperation, support and partnership in our collective efforts to maintain peace, security and public safety.
“While appreciating these efforts, I must also express the deep sadness and concern of the Command over the tragic incident involving the discovery of four unconscious children, aged 6, 9, 12 and 15 years, in Ideani Community.
“Regrettably, despite the strenuous efforts of medical personnel to save their lives, three of the children were certified dead. The fourth child is currently receiving intensive medical care and is courageously fighting for survival.
“Before addressing the circumstances surrounding this unfortunate incident, I wish to announce that the Anambra State Police Command will bear the full medical expenses of the surviving child. We shall also closely monitor the child’s treatment and recovery to ensure that every necessary medical intervention is provided.
“Our immediate priority is to see the child recover out of respect for the sanctity of human life.
“I wish to assure the people of Anambra State that the circumstances surrounding this incident will be conducted with the highest level of professionalism.
“As I assume command, we shall undertake a comprehensive review of our policing strategies and operational capabilities. We will strengthen intelligence gathering, enhance intelligence-led and technology-driven policing, improve operational efficiency, and deepen proactive crime prevention measures across the State.
“We shall also reinforce community policing initiatives, strengthen collaboration with sister security agencies, organized vigilante groups and other critical stakeholders, and continue to build public confidence through effective partnership and engagement.
“Our objective is clear—to make Anambra State safer, more secure and more peaceful for every resident and visitor.
“Gentlemen of the Press, as members of the Fourth Estate of the Realm, you remain indispensable partners in the security architecture of our State. Your responsibility in informing the public, especially during periods of heightened security concern, cannot be overemphasized.
“I therefore urge you to continue to uphold the highest standards of professionalism by ensuring that your reports are factual, balanced, responsible and guided at all times by the overriding interest of public safety and national security.
“I count on your continued support, cooperation and objective reportage as we collectively confront criminality in all its forms. I extend my hand of fellowship to every member of the media and invite you to remain dependable partners in our shared mission of securing Anambra State.
“Anambra State is blessed with industrious, resilient and enterprising people whose immense potential can only thrive in an atmosphere of peace, law and order. The Police Command under my leadership is fully committed to creating and sustaining that enabling environment.
“I wish to assure all Ndi Anambra that we shall perform our constitutional responsibilities with integrity, fairness, professionalism and respect for the rule of law. We shall remain resolute in protecting lives and property, preventing crime and maintaining public order throughout the State.
“Permit me to express my profound gratitude to Almighty God for His grace, mercy and guidance.
“I also sincerely thank the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, psc (+), NPM, for the confidence reposed in me and for finding me worthy to serve as the Commissioner of Police, Anambra State Command.
“I equally appreciate the Government of Anambra State under the leadership of Professor Charles Chukwuma Soludo for his unwavering support to the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies, as well as for the various policies and legislative initiatives aimed at strengthening public safety and addressing the root causes of crime.
“I urge every resident of Anambra State to remain law-abiding, vigilant and security-conscious. Continue to support the Police and other security agencies by providing timely and credible information that will assist us in preventing and combating crime.
“I also appeal to members of the public not to hesitate to report suspicious persons, activities or incidents to the nearest Police Station or through our designated emergency channels.
“For emergencies, please call 112 or 07039194332.
“For credible security-related information or concerns requiring my direct attention, I can also be reached on 08081779961.
“Let me once again assure Ndi Anambra that the Anambra State Police Command under my leadership shall remain steadfast in protecting lives and property, upholding the rule of law, strengthening strategic partnerships and ensuring that every law-abiding citizen can live and conduct legitimate business in an atmosphere of peace and security.
“Together, through unity of purpose, mutual trust and collective responsibility, we shall build a safer, more secure and more prosperous Anambra State, CP concluded.
