The Nigeria Police Force (NPF), on Monday, clarified that the Falomo Police Barracks in Lagos has not been sold out, but rather undergoing reconstruction to make it habitable to Police personnel like their counterparts around the globe.
Addressing newsmen in Abuja on the status of the barrack and others, the Force Spokesperson, Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP), Olumuyiwa Adejobi also dismissed the claims making the round that the personnel occupying the barracks were forcefully evicted from the building.
The FPRO while debunking the allegations as false and untrue, disclosed that the occupants of the barracks were given adequate notice and paid N2m each to secure another accommodation adding that the former occupants would receive monthly rent and would be brought back after the completion of the renovation of the barracks.
He clarified that the project would be completed tentatively by 12 months as agreed with the development partners
According to him, “Contrary to recent reports, the Falomo Police Barracks has not been sold out, no Police officers were forcefully evicted from the Barracks. Occupants were given adequate notice, provided relocation assistance, and compensated with N2,000,000 each to secure alternative accommodation.
“Furthermore, they will receive monthly rent allowances in line with provisions for officers not residing in the barracks. Upon completion of the new facility, these officers will be allotted housing units, ensuring a seamless transition back to improved living conditions.
“We urge the public to dismiss false narratives regarding this reconstruction and recognize the broader objective of enhancing police welfare. The NPF remains committed to the well-being of its personnel, understanding that dignified living conditions are essential to effective service delivery.”
He added that the rebuilding of the barracks which was done through a PPP arrangement was aimed at providing a safe accommodation for officers.
According to him, “This project was initiated under the leadership of former Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Usman Baba Alkali, in collaboration with the Lagos State Government and private sector partners through a Public-Private Partnership (PPP).
“The current IGP, Dr. Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun reaffirmed the Force’s commitment to improving officers’ housing by convening the first Nigeria Police Force Housing Summit on April 23-24, 2024. This summit brought together stakeholders to chart a sustainable path toward improved police welfare.
“A nationwide assessment revealed that less than 25% of police personnel have access to adequate barracks accommodations, with 90% of existing barracks falling into severe disrepair. Many of these structures are dangerously unsafe, posing a clear risk to occupants.
“The urgent reconstruction of these facilities, including Falomo Barracks, is not only necessary but aligned with international best practices to ensure the safety and well-being of our officers.
“The rebuilding of Falomo Barracks reflects our unwavering resolve to provide safe, decent housing for officers, a vision that aligns with global standards and safeguards the future of those who serve. We appeal to the public to support these reforms, which aim to enhance the quality of life for our officers and strengthen the foundation of public service in Nigeria.”
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