Governor Akinwunmi
Ambode of Lagos State, on Friday, approved an upward review of Group Life Insurance compensation for officers and men of the state Police Command.
Ambode made the disclosure during a visit to the Command’s Headquarters at Ikeja, Lagos.
Reports say that the scheme was initiated by ex-governor Babatunde Fashola.
Fashola had subscribed to an additional group life insurance scheme to complement the Federal Government’s policy on Contributory Pensions Act.
Ambode said that with the review, senior officers would have N5 million as against N2 million, while officers in the inspector cadre would have N3 million as against N1.5million.
He said that other ranks would have insurance benefit increased from N1 million to N2million.
According to him, the gesture is informed by the critical roles the police have played in the enhancement of the state economy by securing lives and property.
“Given that the scheme which covers death and permanent disability is almost 16 years, one cannot but agree that the compensation value has become grossly inadequate.
“Therefore, in fulfillment of our resolve to sustain, improve and consolidate on past achievements, I am pleased to announce the upward review of the compensation value. This will take immediate effect,” Ambode said.
He sought the partnership of the Police in ensuring safety and security of lives and property while assuring them that the state government would put their concerns and constraints in the front burner.
“I consider it compelling to again seek your robust partnership and collaboration as we advance the cause for a safe and secure Lagos State.
“As 21st century Police officers, you are expected to scale up your skills and professional conduct in a manner that citizens will see you as true friends who will not compromise integrity and forthrightness,” he said.
The governor also sought their support and cooperation in facilitating the strict enforcement of the Lagos State Law on protection against violence and the state criminal laws that had to do with domestic violence against women and rape.
“By doing that, we will be sending a strong signal of zero tolerance to such barbaric acts and also conveying a message to our women of our commitment to their protection,” he said.
Earlier, the state Commissioner of Police, Mr Kayode Aderanti, said the governor’s visit within the first week of assumption of duty was a clear demonstration of the new administration’s commitment to security.
Aderanti said the nexus between security and business could not be overemphasised and assured that the security of the state would not be compromised in any way.