By Adewole Kehinde
The Federal Capital Territory is witnessing a remarkable transformation in policing, crime prevention, and public safety under the leadership of the Commissioner of Police, FCT Command, CP Ahmed Muhammed Sanusi, PhD, fcai. Since his assumption of office, the FCT Police Command has demonstrated a renewed commitment to professionalism, innovation, intelligence-led policing, and proactive crime-fighting strategies that have significantly enhanced security across Abuja.
Without any doubt, CP Sanusi has been a blessing to the Federal Capital Territory. His tenure has been marked by visible achievements that continue to inspire public confidence in the Nigeria Police Force. The reduction in crime rates across the FCT is a testament to his strategic leadership, operational efficiency, and determination to ensure that Abuja remains one of the safest cities in the country.
One of the defining features of his administration has been the deployment of technology and intelligence-driven policing. Under his watch, individuals who believed they could destabilize public peace by circulating fake videos, spreading false narratives, and creating unnecessary panic on social media have discovered that there is no hiding place for criminality in the FCT. Through the effective use of technology and digital intelligence, such individuals have been swiftly identified and apprehended, sending a strong message that misinformation and cyber-enabled criminal activities will not be tolerated.
It is therefore commendable that CP Sanusi has officially launched the Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU), a strategic initiative designed to confront some of the most serious security threats facing the nation’s capital. The establishment of the VCRU reflects the commitment of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, towards proactively addressing threats posed by armed robbery, kidnapping, violent attacks, organized criminal activities, and other serious crimes that threaten public peace and safety.
The decision to structure the unit into five operational sectors across the FCT is particularly noteworthy. This strategic arrangement will undoubtedly ensure broader coverage, improved intelligence gathering, faster response capability, and more effective deployment of resources. In a rapidly expanding capital city like Abuja, such a proactive and decentralized approach to crime fighting is both timely and necessary.
Equally deserving of commendation is CP Sanusi’s insistence on professionalism in the selection and deployment of personnel assigned to the VCRU. The officers were carefully selected, thoroughly screened, and rigorously trained before deployment. This deliberate approach demonstrates a commitment not only to operational effectiveness but also to ethical policing.
The Commissioner deserves special praise for emphasizing that professionalism, discipline, accountability, and respect for human rights must remain the guiding principles of the unit’s operations. In an era where public trust in law enforcement is critical, such emphasis reassures residents that security operations will be conducted within the bounds of the law and with respect for the dignity of citizens.
Furthermore, CP Sanusi’s strict warning that misconduct, abuse of authority, harassment, extortion, and other forms of unprofessional conduct will not be tolerated under any circumstance sends a clear signal that indiscipline has no place in the FCT Police Command. Such a firm stance is essential for building public confidence and strengthening the relationship between the police and the communities they serve.
Another laudable initiative under his leadership is the intensive one-day Forensic and Fraud Investigation Training Programme organized for FCT Police personnel and other stakeholders. At a time when criminal activities are becoming increasingly sophisticated and technologically driven, the importance of continuous capacity building cannot be overstated.
The training programme was specifically aimed at strengthening participants’ capacity in modern forensic and fraud investigation techniques, enhancing professionalism, improving investigative competence, and supporting effective crime detection and prosecution. This initiative demonstrates a clear understanding that effective policing in the 21st century requires officers who are equipped with advanced investigative skills and modern crime-fighting tools.
I particularly commend CP Sanusi for prioritizing knowledge acquisition and professional development among personnel. Such investments in human capacity will undoubtedly yield long-term benefits for the security architecture of the FCT and Nigeria as a whole.
However, the success of this initiative will depend largely on the willingness of participating personnel to maximize the opportunity provided by the training programme. They must embrace the knowledge, skills, and competencies being imparted and apply them effectively in tackling emerging and sophisticated forms of crime.
Contemporary policing demands continuous learning, innovation, and adaptation to evolving criminal trends. Criminals are constantly developing new methods and exploiting technological advancements to perpetrate crimes. Therefore, law enforcement officers must remain ahead of the curve through regular training, professional development, and the adoption of best practices in criminal investigations.
As residents of the Federal Capital Territory continue to enjoy the dividends of improved security under CP Ahmed Muhammed Sanusi’s leadership, it is important to recognize that security is a collective responsibility. The police alone cannot achieve lasting success without the support and cooperation of the public.
I therefore call on all residents of the FCT to join hands with the FCT Police Command and CP Ahmed Muhammed Sanusi in the collective effort to make Abuja crime-free. Citizens must remain vigilant, provide timely and credible information to security agencies, support lawful policing initiatives, and reject all forms of criminality within their communities.
The launch of the Violent Crime Response Unit and the organization of the Forensic and Fraud Investigation Training Programme are clear indications that the FCT Police Command is not resting on its oars. Rather, it is continuously evolving to meet emerging security challenges through innovation, professionalism, and strategic planning.
CP Ahmed Muhammed Sanusi has demonstrated that effective leadership, accountability, and a clear vision can transform policing outcomes. For these commendable initiatives and his unwavering commitment to the safety of residents, he deserves the appreciation and support of all well-meaning Nigerians, particularly the people of the Federal Capital Territory.
Adewole Kehinde is a public affairs analyst and advocate for good governance and security sector reforms. E-mail: kennyadewole@gmail.com X: @kennyadewole 08166240846
