The tragic loss of 229 police officers in Nigeria from January 2023 to October 2024 underscores the perilous environment in which they work, according to an investigation by Daily Trust.
These fatalities occurred due to confrontations with bandits, terrorists, cultists, and other criminal groups, as well as incidents of mob violence.
Despite the risks, many officers express unwavering dedication to their duties, calling for better welfare for their families and more effective protective measures.
Security experts emphasize the urgent need for modern equipment, teamwork during operations, and intelligence-driven approaches to reduce these fatalities.
Attempts to gain an official statement from police authorities have been met with silence.
However, sources indicate that investigations are ongoing under the directives of the Inspector-General of Police to uncover the circumstances surrounding these killings.
Meanwhile, experts also warn against internal sabotage, urging reforms to eliminate bad actors within the force who may be aiding criminals. These measures, if implemented, could provide much-needed safety and morale boosts for officers in the line of duty.
