The Nigeria’s Police Council on Tuesday confirmed the Acting Inspector General of police, Suleiman Abba, as the substantive Inspector General of police.
The confirmation was made at its meeting at the Presidential Villa.
The Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the President, Dr Reuben Abati, confirmed this development to State House correspondents after the meeting of the council at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.
He aid the IGP, now facing criticisms over his illegal act in withdrawing the policemen guarding the Speaker of the House of Representatives, has now been admitted into the Police Council by virtue of his new appointment.
Governor Adams Oshiomhole of Edo state, who also spoke on the outcome of the meeting, said the council confirmed the appointment of Abba because of his good credentials.
He, however, advised the I-G to always be fair and just while performing his responsibilities.
“I’m clear that the I-G must see Nigeria for what it is; it is a multi-party democracy; he must act according to the police law not according to the police convenience; these are my personal views.
“And the fact that he has been confirmed does mean if he doesn’t play according to the rules I have not forfeited my right to revise my position.
“So for now we are unanimous that based on his pedigree that Malam Abba has what it takes to reposition the police,’’ he said
In a brief interaction with State House correspondents, Abba said his confirmation was comforting but “comes with huge responsibility’’.
“I must tell you this is a happy moment but is also a moment of sober reflection.
“Reflection on the responsibilities, on expectations; certainly I have to work hard to ensure that I meet up with the expectations of the office.
“Truly Nigerians and in fact all people in Nigeria deserve the best from us so that we make the environment safer and secure.
“I assure you, having reflected on all these we will ensure that we manage all the resources in the charge of the Nigerian police to ensure they are used judiciously for the safety and security of Nigeria.’’
Abba was appointed acting IG by President Goodluck Jonathan on Aug. 1, 2014, as successor to Muhammed Abubakar, who retired after 35 years of public service on July 31.
The 55 year old new IG from Gwaram Local Government area of Jigawa State, was born on March 22, 1959, and has degrees in History and Law.
He enlisted in the Nigerian Police as Cadet Inspector on Dec. 31, 1984, and was promoted to Assistant Inspector-General (AIG) on Feb. 22, 2012.
He had at various times, served as Assistant Commissioner of Police in charge of the Criminal Investigation Department, FCT Command, Deputy Force Secretary and Commissioner of Police, Rivers State.
