The newly deployed Commissioner of Police in Edo State, Patrick Daor, has promised to ensure that officers under his leadership treat residents with respect. At the same time, he will improve the Edo police command’s response to crime and security concerns.
According to The Punch, Daor spoke on Monday after his predecessor, Monday Agbonika, formally handed over the command to him at the state police headquarters in Benin City. Agbonika has since been promoted to the rank of Assistant Inspector-General of Police.
Daor said his administration would build on existing crime-fighting strategies. However, he will make adjustments where necessary to improve security across the state.
‘Every policeman must respect citizens’
The new commissioner placed particular emphasis on the conduct of officers. He also emphasised the need to strengthen public confidence in the police.
“More importantly, I will ensure that every policeman has respect for every citizen of this state,” Daor said.
“We will work towards winning more of the trust of the good people of this state. And we will maintain a very open-door policy.”
He urged residents to see policing as a shared responsibility. In addition, he encouraged members of the public to provide information that could help the command address security issues.
“Policing is not just for the police alone. It’s for every one of us,” he said.
Daor also promised that information brought to his attention would be handled professionally.
“Wherever there are issues that you think I should be informed of, please don’t hesitate. Let me know. And that issue will be handled with the utmost professionalism,” he added.
Edo police command to improve mobility
Daor said the Edo police command would place greater emphasis on mobility and prompt response under his leadership.
He described his vision as “a command that is always moving,” with officers expected to respond quickly to issues affecting communities across the state.
The commissioner said he would continue the progress recorded under Agbonika while strengthening areas that require further attention.
Agbonika, during the handover, said crime had been reduced significantly during his tenure as commissioner.
He thanked officers of the command, religious leaders and the Edo State Government for the support he received while serving in the state.
Daor’s assumption of office now begins a new phase for the command. His early priorities are centred on professional conduct, public trust and improved response to security challenges.
