…the AIG Jimoh Order aims to restore public trust and elevate professional standards within the force.
Lagos, Nigeria — The iNews Times | In a decisive announcement that could redefine public‑police relations, the AIG Jimoh Order now mandates that all police officers must pay fares before boarding commercial vehicles. The directive was issued on Wednesday by Assistant Inspector‑General of Police (Zone 2), Mr Olohundare Jimoh, during a sensitisation meeting with drivers and transport workers at Obalende Garage, Lagos State, in observance of National Police Day 2026.
The AIG emphasised that the relationship between the police and the public must be based on partnership, not coercion. “No police officer has the right to enter your vehicle without paying. Assistance should be voluntary, not forced,” Jimoh said, underscoring the core principle behind his bold order.
Strengthening Respect and Cooperation
The AIG Jimoh Order challenges lingering perceptions of friction between police officers and transport unions. Jimoh highlighted that relations remain cordial and built on mutual respect, contrary to claims of persistent conflict. He stressed that mutual cooperation is essential to maintaining safety and order on Nigeria’s busy roads.
In addition to fare payment, the AIG used the occasion to remind officers that extortion and misconduct will not be tolerated. “I don’t collect money from officers. We don’t arrest people arbitrarily. If you experience any misconduct, report directly to me,” he asserted. By enforcing accountability, the AIG Jimoh Order aims to restore public trust and elevate professional standards within the force.
Encouraging Public Engagement
Jimoh urged the public and transport workers to engage police constructively, avoiding confrontations and reporting grievances through proper channels. The AIG assured that complaints would receive prompt attention and resolution, reinforcing the idea that police authority is rooted in responsibility rather than privilege.
“The AIG Jimoh Order is not just about paying fares,” he explained. “It is about fostering respect and trust between law enforcement and the community. Officers and drivers are partners in maintaining safety on our roads.”
Road Safety and Discipline
Beyond fare compliance, Jimoh addressed wider road safety concerns, citing speeding, drunk driving, and the use of chemical stimulants as major threats to life on Nigerian roads. “If you drink, do not drive. Ensure your vehicle is roadworthy. Faulty vehicles put you and others at risk,” he said, highlighting the connection between discipline and safety.
He encouraged drivers to maintain stable home environments, noting that personal well-being influences professionalism and decision-making on the road. Through these practical instructions, the AIG Jimoh Order is linked not only to fare accountability but also to the broader goal of creating safer, more disciplined communities.
Sustained Engagement with Transport Unions
Jimoh reaffirmed the police command’s commitment to ongoing collaboration with transport unions, aimed at reducing conflicts, building trust, and enhancing nationwide road safety. By embedding the AIG Jimoh Order into everyday interactions, Lagos police hope to transform ordinary encounters into opportunities for mutual respect rather than tension.
The directive is expected to resonate strongly in Lagos, where commuting challenges and traffic congestion frequently amplify stress and conflicts. By requiring officers to adhere to the same rules as ordinary commuters, the AIG Jimoh Order serves as a tangible step toward equality, professionalism, and public accountability.
Looking Ahead
As Nigeria celebrates National Police Day 2026, community outreach programs across the country from sensitisation campaigns to safety awareness initiatives will amplify the impact of Jimoh’s order. Analysts predict that the AIG Jimoh Order will become a reference point for discussions on police reform, public trust, and safe commuting practices nationwide.
With this directive, the Lagos Command signals a commitment to ethical policing, public engagement, and safer roads, demonstrating that law enforcement can evolve in ways that benefit both officers and citizens. The AIG Jimoh Order may well mark a turning point in how Nigerians perceive and interact with the police.
