Nigeria’s Inspector-General of Police, Mohammed Adamu, has debunked allegations making the rounds that he perfected plans to sell the Police Officers’ Mess at Onikan in Lagos.
A statement issued on Monday by Force Public Relations Officer, Frank Mba, described the allegation as the handiwork of “mischief authors.”
He explained that the Mess was built to cater for the welfare of Police officers, serve as transit accommodation for personnel on transfer or on special assignments and provide a social environment for their relaxation.
Mba further stated that over time, the property has degenerated and shown structural defects requiring a massive renovation or outright rebuilding, and it was to restore its lost glory, that prompted the IGP and the Management Team to take the decision to upgrade it “to a world-class edifice”.
Mba disclosed that the renovation will include the development of a world-class three-star hotel, office spaces for lease, and a shopping complex.
He said the new Mess will not only cater for the welfare of the officers but also provide an alternate stream of income for its maintenance and sustenance.
Sais he, upon completion, the project which is wholly owned by the Police and financed by the Police Cooperative Society, would improve the aesthetic value of the Onikan waterline, provide one of the best water view facilities on Lagos Island and improve social interaction with the public.
“It is also expected to generate additional employment opportunities for teeming Nigerian youths, boost the internally generated revenue of Lagos State and generally improve the economy of the State.”
The IGP admonished Nigerians to beware of rumour-mongering and those seeking to discredit the project.