I Have Admirers in the Police and Among Civilians

I Am Proud to Be a Policewoman Anytime, Any Day

Talking about sexual harassment, I faced it often when I newly joined the police. It is not a new thing. Sexually harassment is everywhere. There is no sector of human endeavor where you have men and women working together that there will not be an issue of sexual harassment. I remember then, my seniors would flatter me. Some might even open up to tell me they are interested in me. I just reply them with a smile, politely. What about the people in the public? When they see me in my uniform, they always want to be my friend. Some will send me unexpected gifts, trace me to my office, and steal my phone number to call me at night

How do you cope working in the midst of many men and do you face sexual harassment?

Talking about sexual harassment, I faced it often when I newly joined the police. It is not a new thing. Sexually harassment is everywhere. There is no sector of human endeavor where you have men and women working together that there will not be an issue of sexual harassment. I remember then, my seniors would flatter me. Some might even open up to tell me they are interested in me. I just reply them with a smile, politely. What about the people in the public? When they see me in my uniform, they always want to be my friend. Some will send me unexpected gifts, trace me to my office, and steal my phone number to call me at night. What do you expect me to do? I can’t stop picking my calls because I don’t want to speak with strangers. When I get angry or when I am not in a pleasant mood I can respond rudely. But when I am in a good mood I politely explain to them that I am not interested. Some will back off while some will continue to express their interest in me until when they notice that I am not giving them any attention. One day, someone walked into my office and told me I am the most beautiful police officer he had ever come across. I just ignored him and continued my work. That is what makes me a public relations officer. I should be ready to listen to anybody – be it official, or not. Besides, my office is an open office so anybody can walk in to visit me. If you talk about sexual harassment from men either through phone calls, physical visits, I know how to handle it and I take it as a compliment.

Delta Sate used to be the kidnappers and armed robbers’ den. What is the situation now?

The security situation of Delta State as I speak to you now, has significantly improved from what it used to be. The police are really working hard in the state. There is 24-hour patrol in every part of the state. We try to make sure that the Deltans go to bed with their two eyes closed. We also appreciate the cooperation and collaboration from the state government. The leadership of the Nigeria Police, at national, state and divisional levels, has organised several training sessions, seminars and conferences to empower police officers on how to effectively deal with issues of armed robbers and Kidnappers. Our policemen and policewomen are working. People have commended us for the great work we are doing in the state. Before now, it was almost impossible for indigenes to come to the state during festive periods because of rampant criminal activities. Today, everyone can come home to celebrate with their families knowing that we have ensured that criminal activities have been arrested. The state is now a peaceful place; people can even walk freely at night without of being attacked by armed robbers or kidnappers. The Nigeria Police works 24 hours each day. I thank God we have been able to reduce crime rate in Asaba.

However, Deltans should report any strange movements to the Nigeria Police doing so by calling or going to the nearest police station. This is why people are advised to know the telephone numbers of the Divisional Police Officers or station phone numbers close to them. The police play important roles in protecting lives and properties of individuals. They are responsible for maintaining peace and order; upholding rule of law and performing their duties with sensitivity and regard for members of the community.

How do you cope with your male police officers?

In the police we don’t segregate or discriminate. We love and respect one another. There is nothing a man can do in the job that I cannot do. I may even achieve more than my male counterparts. Considering the fact that I am a woman, I am going to get some things done. You know what they say; what a man can do, a woman can do even better. I am an advocate of gender equality. I have occupied important positions in the past and even when I went on United Nations and other foreign assignments, I stood up to men. My job is to project the image of Nigeria Police and assist the Commissioner of Police to succeed. And I am fully prepared to do that.

As a police officer, do you have time to socialise?

Why not? I socialise a lot. I love meeting people. As a matter of fact, I am a member of Rotary Club where I spend time with my friends. I was immediate past chairman of the club. In our club, we socialise a lot. We also run charity programmes like donating gift items to the less privileged, helping the widows and rendering voluntary services to the community. We do a lot of things just to help the poor in my club. So if I am not working in the office, I am in my club with our members or relaxing at home.

You prefer being in casual clothes; do you have native attires in your wardrobe?

Not really; I don’t feel comfortable in traditional clothes although if an event calls for it, I will put it on.

Do you wear casuals to your village meetings?

(Laughs) They know I am a force lady and I don’t like wearing traditional clothes or tying wrapper. So they don’t even complain if I wear my regular trouser suits to their meetings.

What is your best colour?

Black; I have lots of black clothes in my wardrobe aside that, I love black clothes.

How do you make out time to care for your kids?

My children are independent. They are old enough to take care of themselves. I have two lovely daughters and two sons. I speak with them every day. They don’t even feel my absence because we are very close. Most weekends they visit me and when I am less busy I also travel home to spend time with them.

What turns you off?

Lies; I hate lies so much because I am a woman of truth.

What can’t find you be found doing and wearing?

Smoking; you can never find me smoking and I cannot wear bikini.

Is it because of your job?

No. I hate to expose my body.