- Kogi CJ wants police to get legal training.
- Training aims to improve handling of criminal suspects.
- Police Commissioner commits to better training for his officers.
Why Kogi’s Top Judge is Calling for Better Legal Training for Cops
Justice Josiah Majebi, the Chief Judge of Kogi State, has made a strong recommendation to the state’s Commissioner of Police, CP Miller Dantawaye: train your officers better! He emphasized that police officers need solid legal training to handle criminal suspects correctly and ensure that due process is followed every single time.
The Courtesy Visit That Sparked a Call to Action
During a courtesy visit from CP Miller Dantawaye to his office in Lokoja, Justice Majebi didn’t mince words. He stressed that legal training is essential for police officers to perform their duties effectively and uphold the law.
What’s the Big Deal About Legal Training for Police?
Think about it: police officers are often the first point of contact in the justice system. They make critical decisions about arrests, evidence collection, and suspect handling. Without a strong understanding of the law, mistakes can happen. These mistakes can lead to cases being thrown out of court, innocent people being wrongly accused, and guilty individuals walking free. This is especially important in Nigeria, where the justice system faces numerous challenges.
Police Boss Responds: “We’re On It!”
CP Miller Dantawaye took the message to heart. He thanked Justice Majebi for the advice and promised to create a legal training program for his officers. Dantawaye also promised that he is committed to justice, security, and working with everyone to keep Kogi State peaceful.
More Than Just Training: Building Bridges in the Community
Dantawaye also met with leaders from various community groups, including ECWA (Evangelical Church Winning All), POWA (Police Officers’ Wives Association), POCACOV (Police Campaign Against Cultism and Other Vices), and representatives from Globacom (Glo), a major telecommunications company. These groups all promised to support Dantawaye’s efforts to fight crime in Kogi State. By working together, the police and the community can create a safer environment for everyone.
The Takeaway: Smarter Cops, Better Justice
The call for legal training for police officers in Kogi State is a step in the right direction. By giving officers the knowledge and skills they need, the state can improve its justice system, protect the rights of its citizens, and create a more secure environment for all. The initiative reflects a broader trend in law enforcement worldwide, where continuous professional development is seen as crucial for maintaining public trust and ensuring effective policing.