The Nigeria Police Force has declared that repentant terrorists and other reformed criminals will not be admitted into its ranks, as part of efforts to safeguard the integrity of the nation’s security architecture.
Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG) Isyaku Mohammed made the position known during a stakeholders’ meeting with officers of the Kwara State Police Command, traditional rulers, religious leaders, transport unions, and other community stakeholders in Ilorin.
The DIG urged community leaders, religious heads, and security stakeholders to stop endorsing or recommending individuals with criminal backgrounds for recruitment into security agencies.
According to him, while the Federal Government’s deradicalisation programme is a separate policy, the Nigeria Police Force will not allow repentant terrorists or known criminals to wear the police uniform.
“I served in the North-East and witnessed the deradicalisation programme. But many affected communities rejected the return of those who had committed atrocities against them. We cannot allow such individuals into the Nigeria Police Force,” he said.
Mohammed warned that anyone who knowingly recommends ex-criminals for recruitment could ultimately face the consequences if such individuals are deployed back to their communities as police officers.
He also revealed that a joint border patrol would soon be launched across Kwara State’s borders with Oyo, Ekiti, Kogi, Niger States, and the Benin Republic to strengthen security and curb cross-border crimes.
The DIG explained that the Inspector-General of Police directed senior officers to engage directly with communities across their zones to assess security challenges and develop practical solutions.
He further stressed the importance of community policing, describing it as one of the most effective strategies for preventing crime through stronger collaboration between security agencies and local communities.
Mohammed also called for timely intelligence sharing and greater youth engagement, noting that empowering young people remains a critical step toward reducing crime and improving public safety.
