Lagos – Some security experts and lawyers in Lagos on Saturday lauded Inspector General of Police Solomon Arase’s initiative to conduct drug tests on all policemen before they carry arms.
Arase had on Wednesday in Abuja announced plans to conduct the test at the inauguration of drug testing and campaign against sudden death of police officers.
It was jointly organised by the police and the Hypertension and Diabetes Awareness Foundation.
The experts told newsmen that it was a good development as the Nigeria Police was getting concerned with the mental state of its officers handling arms.
A lawayer, Mr Michael Ogunade, said: “ It is a commendable effort as the exercise will reduce cases of accidental discharge or extra judicial killings.”
Mr Charles Sullivan, Head, Media Operations at Bells Security, a private outfit, also commended the plan by the Nigeria Police,saying it will help to sanitise the force.
”Apart from the fact that police are paying more attention to the health of officers, they are also protecting the public against accidental discharge which is a commendable move.”
Mr Jide Ageaga, a security consultant at Pendulum Securities, advised the police not to go back on the planned exercise.
“It should also be transparently conducted as it will instill more discipline in the men and officers of the Nigeria Police,” he said..
