Otti Says Home-State Posting Will Strengthen Security
UMUAHIA — Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has endorsed the policy of posting newly commissioned police officers to serve in their states of origin, describing it as a major step toward improving security across the country.
The governor made the remarks while receiving 31 newly commissioned police officers of Abia State origin, drawn from the 7th Regular Course of the Nigerian Police Academy, who were posted to serve in the state under the new policy introduced by the Inspector General of Police (IGP).
According to Otti, the policy would significantly enhance policing effectiveness because indigenous officers are already familiar with the terrain, culture, and language of their home states.
“You Know the Nooks and Crannies” — Otti
Commending the IGP and the police leadership, the governor described the initiative as “fantastic” and urged that it be sustained.
“It is a fantastic policy to post officers to their home states. You know all the nooks and crannies of where you come from,” Otti said.
“If they had posted you to Maiduguri, maybe before you settle down, before you get used to the culture, the language is also a barrier.
“So here, if they are speaking any language, you will understand. There are a lot of advantages.”
Otti added that the familiarity officers have with their communities would improve intelligence gathering and response to security threats.
Governor Assures Continued Priority on Security
The Abia governor stressed that his administration maintains close oversight of security developments across the state.
He assured the officers that security remains a top priority for his government and urged them to remain focused, disciplined, and professional in the discharge of their duties.
“There is nothing that happens around this state that we do not know,” Otti said, reaffirming his commitment to maintaining law and order.
He also warned the officers against unwholesome practices and encouraged them to serve with integrity and dedication.
State Government Promises Support for Officers
Governor Otti pledged to review the requests presented by the officers and expressed readiness to support them in addressing operational and welfare challenges.
He assured that assistance from the state government would be coordinated through the Office of the Special Adviser on Security, emphasizing collaboration between the state and security agencies.
Police Officers Say Policy Will Deepen Community Trust
Speaking on behalf of his colleagues, ASP Irozuru Somtochukwu Justice said the officers paid the visit as a courtesy following their commissioning and posting to Abia State.
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He explained that the IGP’s home-state posting initiative is designed to strengthen community policing by allowing officers to begin their careers among their own people.
“This initiative fosters trust, collaboration and effective community policing,” ASP Irozuru said.
He added that serving in their home state would deepen their resolve to protect lives and property, even at personal risk.
Officers Commend Otti’s Leadership
ASP Irozuru also appealed for government support in addressing the officers’ basic needs to ensure effective policing and personal development.
He praised Governor Otti’s leadership style, describing it as people-centred and impactful.
“Abians have witnessed purposeful leadership, people-centred policies and a sincere commitment to the welfare of the common man,” he said.
“Your works speak loudly across Nigeria and continue to inspire young people like us to believe that service, integrity and sacrifice still matter.”
