The Sanity Multi-Efforts Forum – SMEF, RC 9565689, has commended the Nigeria Police Force on the historic appointment of the first female Assistant Inspector General of Police – AIG to Zone 8 Police Headquarters, Lokoja, Betty Isopkan Otimeyin describing it as a significant milestone in 35 years.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, Prince Dan Olaitan Dada, Convener of SMEF, said the appointment represents a bold step towards inclusivity, professionalism and institutional sanity within the nation’s security architecture.
SMEF noted that the development reflects the commitment of the Police leadership to gender equity and reform.
“As an organization dedicated to Sanity in Security, Governance and the Protection of Citizens’ Rights, we are encouraged by this appointment. We expect that it will engender greater empathy, accountability and public trust in policing across Kogi and Kwara States,” the statement said.
The organization referenced key provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (As Amended) as the framework for policing.
Section 33(1) guarantees the Right to Life.
Section 34(1)(a) prohibits torture and inhuman or degrading treatment.
Section 35 guarantees the Right to Personal Liberty.
Section 36 guarantees the Right to Fair Hearing.
Section 41 guarantees the Right to Freedom of Movement.
In view of these constitutional guarantees, SMEF called on the new AIG to prioritize three strategic areas:
1. Elimination of Extortion and Harassment: Ensure strict compliance with Sections 34 and 35 by all officers under the Zone, and uphold the dignity of citizens in all police engagements.
2. Lawful Enforcement and Removal of Illegal Roadblocks: Ensure that revenue enforcement and security operations conform with Sections 41 and the Police Act 2020, to ease movement and reduce hardship on citizens and businesses.
3. Deepening Community Policing: Foster structured collaboration with Civil Society Organizations, traditional institutions and community stakeholders to enhance trust, intelligence gathering and public safety in Kogi and Kwara States.
“Zone 8 covers Kogi and Kwara States. The peace and economic prosperity of these states depend on a police service that is professional, law-abiding and citizen-centered,” SMEF stated.
The Forum reaffirmed its readiness to partner with the new leadership of Zone 8 in advancing public enlightenment, monitoring of police-citizen relations and the promotion of sanity on Nigeria’s roads and communities.
SMBI: Sanity Must Be It, Nationwide.
Sanity Multi-Efforts Forum – SMEF
RC: 9565689
30th July, 2026
