Forty police officers are currently jostling for the post of Divisional Police Officer at the Ikotun Police Station, Lagos, findings by The Point have revealed. The station, it was gathered, was one of the ‘juiciest’ in Lagos even though those posted there had always been known to be very busy and efficient in the discharge of their duties.
Junior police officers, who spoke in separate interviews with our correspondent, revealed that the leader of a popular church at the Ikotun area, had a great influence on who emerged DPO.
“This prophet saw the need to post reliable and dedicated officers to Ikotun Division; more importantly, because of the large number of personalities, which include foreigners, who worship in his church. So, he confers with the authorities, who make the postings directly. Currently, 40 officers are battling for the post,” one of the sources said.
Investigations, however, revealed that there were many perks associated with the post of DPO or Area Commander at the Ikotun Division.
“Aside from the special monthly salary from the man of God, these lucky officers also earn weekly allowances. The DPO earns nothing below N20,000 as allowance weekly and about N500,000 monthly, apart from his official take-home,” another police officer, who asked not to be name, said.
“Bags of rice and other items of value are usually given out freely to both the DPO and the Area Commander during festivities by the church, cash inclusive. And for you to qualify, you must first of all be a member of the church. You must be willing and ready to take orders from the Prophet,” another junior officer added.
An independent source within the church told The Point that “the prophet is known for his humanitarian gestures. He’s not doing anything new. If he extends the gesture to the police officers working within his jurisdiction, fine! There is nothing bad in it.”
Officers attached to the office of the former Divisional Police Officer, Ikotun Police station, Chief Superintendent John Mark, confirmed the Prophet’s largesse.
