AIG Simeon Akpanudom Pledges People-Oriented Policing, humane detention reforms • Assumes duty at Force CID Annex Alagbon
By Oki O. Samson, Trek Africa Newspaper
The newly Assistant Inspector General of Police, AIG in charge of Force CID Annex Alagbon, Lagos, AIG Simeon Udofia Akpanudom has resumed duty today Monday 30th March 2026. He succeeds the IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu who last held the position before his appointment by the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. This feat makes AIG Akpanudom the 56th Assistant Inspector-General of Police to man the position, National Association of Online Security News Publishers, NAOSNP can report.
As he took office, AIG Akpanudom vowed to drive transparency, strengthen public trust, and reform operational practices in the department, signalling a shift towards proactive media engagement and people-oriented policing.
Speaking with the leadership of NAOSNP and other journalists shortly after taking over, he stressed the importance of telling the police’s story to the public. “We must be in the news for the right reasons. If you don’t tell your story, nobody will tell it for you. We intend to engage the media regularly, fortnightly if possible, monthly at worst, to showcase our work and progress,” he said.
The AIG also revealed that ongoing renovations of detention facilities within the FCID Annex would continue, saying that humane treatment of detainees remained a priority. “I personally inspected and oversaw the renovation of one cell, and work is ongoing in others. While detention will be de-emphasised, any individual detained must have access to decent and safe conditions,” he added.
Akpanudom further outlined plans to retrain personnel, reform operational mindsets, and instil a culture of accountability. “Offences are codified. If no offence exists, there is no basis to investigate or harass anyone. We will ensure that all actions of our personnel comply strictly with the law and best professional practices,” he said.
Addressing concerns over lack of follow-up on reported cases, he assured that the department would improve transparency and ensure continuity in investigations. “Once a case is reported, we will ensure it is followed through, and the media will be kept informed appropriately,” he said.
The newly posted AIG also highlighted the ongoing National Police Week, noting that activities such as environmental sanitation exercises, community lectures, and awareness campaigns would be deployed to strengthen public confidence in the Police.
