New Kebbi CP Hadejia Arrives With Stern Warning: "No Refuge for Criminals"

By Umar Faruk

Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State, Nigeria — Jan 12, 2026(Series News Online)

The newly appointed Commissioner of Police for Kebbi State, CP Umar Mohammed Hadejia, has vowed to confront criminality decisively, declaring that the state will not serve as a refuge for criminal elements under his watch. He officially assumed office on Monday, taking over from CP Bello M. Sani, who retired after attaining the mandatory age of 60.

Addressing journalists at the Police Command headquarters in Birnin Kebbi, the state capital, CP Hadejia, the 38th police commissioner in the state's history, outlined a clear and firm agenda focused on public safety and internal discipline. He acknowledged the state's unique security challenges, including its vast rural terrain and international borders.

"Kebbi State’s strategic location, vast rural terrain, and border communities present unique security challenges, including banditry, kidnapping, illegal arms movement, and trans-border crimes," CP Hadejia stated. He assured the public of his dedication, stating, "I assure the good people of Kebbi State of my total commitment to the protection of lives and property and the preservation of peace and public order. Criminality will be confronted decisively and lawfully."

The new police chief emphasized a strategy rooted in proactive measures, aligning with the vision of the Inspector-General of Police. "Our policing strategy will be driven by community-based policing and intelligence-led operations," he explained. "This proactive framework will strengthen border security, enhance rural patrols, disrupt criminal networks, improve intelligence coordination, and ensure rapid response to security threats."

While calling on the public for support through his open-door policy, CP Hadejia issued an unequivocal warning to the officers and personnel under his command against misconduct.

"Let me state clearly: indiscipline, corruption, negligence, and unprofessional conduct will not be tolerated under my watch," he declared firmly. "All officers must uphold the core values of the Nigeria Police Force; integrity, discipline, professionalism, respect for human rights, and strict compliance with the rule of law. Our conduct must reflect fairness, firmness, and accountability at all times."

CP Hadejia concluded by calling for collective effort from all stakeholders. "With the support of officers and personnel of the Command, the Kebbi State Government, sister security agencies, the media, and law-abiding citizens, we will confront security challenges with resolve and deliver measurable improvements in public safety across the State," he said.