The Nigeria Police Force has announced a change in its public relations leadership, with Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP) Iniedu Okokon appointed as the new Force Public Relations Officer (FPRO). Okokon replaces Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Anthony Placid, who had held the position for only three months after being appointed shortly after Olatunji Disu assumed office as the 23rd Inspector General of Police.
Confirmation of Replacement
DCP Placid confirmed his replacement to a reporter in a terse text response when contacted. However, the police have not officially detailed the circumstances surrounding the latest reshuffle. Sources at the police headquarters told PREMIUM TIMES that Placid has been redeployed to head the Lagos Command's Finance and Administration unit.
Background of the Position
The FPRO position became vacant after the previous holder, DCP Khan Salihu, died after a brief illness. Okokon is expected to assume duties immediately as the new police spokesperson, taking over responsibility for public communication. The newly created Force New Media unit will remain under the supervision of CSP Aliyu Giwa.
Okokon's Previous Role
The new police spokesperson was formerly head of the Complaint Response Unit (CRU), a senior police officer told this newspaper. Further official clarification is expected from the police authorities regarding the reshuffle and future communications strategy.
