The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, has presented cheques totalling ₦11.2 million to the families of three police officers who lost their lives in the line of duty in Kogi State. The compensation was disbursed under the Nigeria Police Force’s Life Insurance Scheme, aimed at providing financial support to the families of fallen officers.
At the presentation ceremony held at the Kogi State Police Command Headquarters in Lokoja, the IGP, represented by the Kogi State Commissioner of Police, Bethrand Onuoha, emphasized the commitment of the police force to supporting the families of officers who make the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.
“The loss of these brave officers is deeply felt, but we must ensure that their families do not suffer financial hardship as a result,” Onuoha stated. “This compensation, though it can never replace their loved ones, is a token of our appreciation and commitment to their welfare.”
The families of the three officers, whose names were withheld for privacy reasons, expressed gratitude for the financial support.
Mrs. Adejoke, the widow of one of the fallen officers, tearfully acknowledged the government’s gesture, stating, “Losing my husband was the hardest thing for me and my children. This support will help us rebuild and secure a better future.”
Another recipient, Mr. John, a father who lost his son in the line of duty, remarked that while no amount of money could bring his child back, the recognition of his sacrifice meant a great deal to the family.
The Inspector General reiterated that the police force remains committed to improving the welfare of its personnel. He highlighted recent efforts to:
- Increase life insurance coverage for officers.
- Provide housing and educational scholarships for the children of fallen officers.
- Strengthen security measures to reduce the risks faced by officers on duty.
“We recognize the dangers that come with policing, and that is why we are working to ensure that officers and their families are adequately supported,” Onuoha added.
The initiative has been met with mixed reactions. While many praised the police for honoring their fallen colleagues, some security analysts and civil rights groups argue that the government must do more to ensure officers’ safety.
“The compensation is commendable, but what is being done to prevent these avoidable deaths?” asked security analyst Dr. Abubakar Adamu. “Improved training, better equipment, and intelligence gathering should be prioritized.”
Others called for an increase in police salaries and benefits to reflect the risks officers face daily.
As the Nigeria Police Force continues its efforts to support officers and their families, there are increasing calls for broader reforms in security operations. Many believe that while financial compensation is necessary, long-term structural changes will be the key to reducing casualties among security personnel.
For the families of the fallen officers, however, the ₦11.2 million support package represents a step in the right direction—one that acknowledges their loved ones’ sacrifices and helps them move forward.
Stay tuned to TheLink News NG for further updates on security developments across Nigeria.
