The Inspector-General of Police, Ibrahim Idris, yesterday in Lagos, presented cash, food stuff and other materials to an orphanage home in Idimu area of Lagos, with a view to giving the motherless babies a sense of belonging, this festive period.
Represented by the Commissioner of Police, Police Cooperative Society, Mr Sholla David, he explained that the gesture was also to show the compassionate side of the police, away from its constitutional duty of fighting crimes.
Addressing the children whose ages were between four months and 14 years, the police boss expressed hope that the visit would not only create a lasting impact in the memories of the children who could be seeing policemen for the first time , but would also help them choose a career in the profession .
He said : “What we have come to do is to show love to those that need love. Out of the little we have, we are here to show we care.
“It is not all the time you see the police running after criminals, we are also friends of the society. All we have come to do in this festive season is to show love to these little ones.
“We don’t know what they will be in future; we know they are the future leaders. We are not here as a religious body, as we have Christians and Muslims here. We are diverse in the Nigeria Police. And in diversity lies our strength. In professionalism, we put up our best.”
He commended management of the orphanage for taking care of the children, even as he assured that the Police as a body would ensure that such gesture would continue.
In her response, proprietress of Precious Pearls Orphanage, Mrs Hannah Omeze , expressed appreciation for the donation, adding that the visit had changed their orientation about the Nigeria Police.
“ We are surprised to see police visiting. We have always thought that it is only crime fighting that policemen are known for. But this visit has changed our perception and orientation about the Nigeria police., “ Omeze said.