Police Dismiss Eviction Claims As Falomo Barracks Undergoes Major Redevelopment

The Nigerian Police Force (NPF) has refuted recent claims of officer evictions from the Falomo Barracks in Lagos, clarifying that personnel were given ample relocation notice, support, and a compensation of ₦2 million each to secure temporary housing.

In a press conference in Abuja, the Force’s Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, confirmed that affected officers will also receive monthly rent allowances consistent with provisions for personnel residing outside the barracks.

He assured that once the new facility is complete, these officers will return to updated housing units, ensuring a smooth transition.

ACP Adejobi urged the public to disregard misleading reports about the reconstruction, stating that the redevelopment is part of the NPF’s commitment to providing safe, modern housing for officers.

This project aligns with international standards and reflects the NPF’s long-term vision to ensure improved living conditions for its workforce.

The statement read: “The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) wishes to address recent misinformation and sensationalism in the media concerning the reconstruction of the Falomo Police Barracks, Lagos State. The barracks, previously in disrepair, will undergo a complete redesign and reconstruction to provide modern, habitable accommodations that reflect the dignity our officers deserve.

“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, NPM, 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 IGP, through the NPF Property Development and Construction Company, has leveraged PPP arrangements to rebuild existing barracks and provide affordable housing for officers. PPP models, which integrate private sector investment into public infrastructure, have been successfully adopted across various sectors in Nigeria, such as rail projects and university hostels, and globally in police housing initiatives.

“Several countries around the world have successfully employed PPPs to provide modern housing for police personnel, with global examples of PPPs in Police Infrastructure including:

“United Kingdom: PPPs have been utilized to develop and manage police estates and accommodations.

“Australia: The New South Wales Police Force has partnered with private developers for residential facilities.

“United States: Cities like Los Angeles, New York, and Chicago have adopted PPP models for police housing.

“Canada: The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) has engaged private developers for police accommodations.

“South Africa, Egypt, and Morocco: These countries have implemented PPPs to address the housing needs of their police forces.

“India and Singapore: State governments and police forces have collaborated with private developers to upgrade infrastructure and residential facilities.

“Algeria and Ethiopia: These nations are actively pursuing PPP models to build thousands of housing units for police and military personnel.

“The growing adoption of PPPs reflects a global trend toward sustainable infrastructure development and enhanced police welfare.

“Contrary to recent reports, no officers were forcefully evicted from the Falomo Barracks. Occupants were given adequate notice, provided relocation assistance, and compensated with ₦2 million 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.

“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.”