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By Oluseye Ojo
The Emeritus Supreme Head of the Cherubim and Seraphim Unification Church of Nigeria, Prophet Solomon Adegboyega Alao, has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what he described as decisive leadership in reorganising the nation’s policing system, following the appointment of Tunji Disu as the new Inspector-General of Police (IGP).
In a statement issued on Thursday, Alao, who is also the Baba Alakoso of the Sacred C&S Church, described the choice of Disu as a bold and timely step capable of addressing Nigeria’s deep-rooted security challenges.
The cleric, however, urged the new police chief to optimise the opportunity to reform the Nigeria Police Force and restore public confidence in the institution by confronting corruption and systemic failures that have plagued the force for decades.
According to him, the appointment came at a critical period when Nigerians expect stronger action against insecurity, corruption within law enforcement, and the growing perception of political interference in policing.
Alao expressed confidence in Disu’s capacity to reposition the force, as he warned that Nigerians would closely monitor the new leadership and its commitment to genuine reforms.
He specifically called on the IGP to tackle the persistent problem of extortion of motorists along major highways across the country, describing the practice as one of the most visible manifestations of corruption within the police.
The cleric noted that the routine harassment and illegal collection of money from motorists at roadblocks have not only tarnished the image of the police but also undermined public trust in law enforcement.
“I am eager to see roadblocks dismantled and the extortion of motorists becoming a thing of the past. Because of the capacity of the new IGP, Nigerians expect this regime to usher in a new phase where ‘bail is free’ becomes a reality, not just a slogan.”
Alao lamented that vital traffic regulations, particularly those guiding the operations of articulated vehicles and commercial transporters, are frequently ignored due to alleged bribery and weak enforcement.
According to him, the failure to enforce such laws has contributed to numerous avoidable accidents on Nigerian roads, often resulting in the loss of innocent lives.
Alao stressed that strict enforcement of safety regulations for heavy-duty vehicles is essential, noting that poorly secured containers have repeatedly fallen off trucks on highways, killing unsuspecting motorists and commuters.
He urged the police leadership to ensure that containers carried by trucks are properly fastened before being allowed on the roads, insisting that such preventive measures would significantly reduce road tragedies.
The cleric charged the new police boss to intensify the fight against insurgency, banditry and kidnapping, which continue to threaten Nigeria’s stability and development.
He urged Disu to prioritise intelligence-driven policing, collaboration with other security agencies, and effective deployment of resources to combat criminal networks across the country.
Alao also raised concerns about the role of the police in electoral processes, particularly with the 2027 general elections approaching. He warned that the credibility of the polls would depend largely on the professionalism and neutrality of security agencies, especially the police, which traditionally play a central role in maintaining law and order during elections.
Alao also called on the police hierarchy to respect and enforce court judgments at all levels of government, stressing that obedience to the rule of law is essential for sustaining democracy and public trust.
The cleric further appealed to Nigerians to support efforts aimed at restoring security and good governance in the country.
