The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Disu, Thursday, presented cheques amounting to ₦184,889,087 to 16 beneficiaries and next-of-kin of officers who died in active service under the Group Life Assurance Scheme at the Force Headquarters, Abuja.
The Police boss, who was represented by DIG Sulaiman Abdul, emphasized that while no amount could replace the lives lost, "the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) remains steadfast in supporting the families left behind and ensuring that the sacrifices of gallant officers will never be forgotten."
He stated, "We are gathered here as a Force and as a family to recognise the courage, the sacrifice, and the ultimate price paid by some of our finest officers who gave their lives in the line of duty.
“These were not ordinary men. They were officers of the Nigerian Police Force who stood in the face of danger, who confronted violence, who placed themselves between chaos and the safety of the innocent Nigerians. They did not retreat. They did not abandon their duty. They stood their ground so that others may live, so that communities may sleep and so that law and order may prevail over fear.
“They paid the ultimate sacrifice, and let us be clear, no nation can fully repay such a debt. No institution can truly compensate for such a loss.”
Addressing the families, IGP Disu stated: We see your pain. We acknowledge your loss and we honour your strength. You have lost husbands. You have lost fathers. You have lost sons and brothers, but beyond that, you have lost heroes.
“On behalf of the entire Nigeria Police Force, I say this with sincerity: You are not alone, and you will never be forgotten.
“The presentation of these cheques today is not, and can never be payment for a life lost. Rather, it is a symbol. A symbol that the institution they served remembers. A symbol that their sacrifice is valued, and a symbol that we remain committed to standing by those they left behind.
“This moment also calls us, as a leadership and as a Force, to reflection. We must continue to do more to protect those who protect others. We must strengthen welfare. We must improve support systems. And we must ensure that no officer of the Nigeria Police Force ever feels abandoned whether in service or in sacrifice.
“To our injured officers who are also beneficiaries today: Your courage is not lost on us. You have borne the physical and emotional cost of service to this nation, and we recognise your sacrifice with deep respect. Your resilience is a testament to the strength and spirit of the Nigeria Police Force.
“To officers still in active service: Let this moment remind us all of the true meaning of this uniform. It is a call to duty. A call to sacrifice. And a call to honour. Your service is seen. Your courage is valued. And your commitment to this nation remains noble and indispensable.
“As we present these cheques today, we do so with heavy hearts, but also with pride. Pride in the bravery of our fallen colleagues. Pride in the strength of their families And pride in the enduring spirit of the Nigeria Police Force
“May the souls of our fallen heroes rest in perfect peace. May their sacrifice never be forgotten. And may their legacy live on in a safer, more secure Nigeria. God bless the Nigerian Police Force,” he prayed.
