Police Constable Resigns, Cites Emotional Distress

A police constable in Oyo State has resigned from the Nigeria Police Force, citing prolonged emotional distress, depression, frustration and declining morale.

Police Constable Aibana Daniel, Force Number 533200, served with the EOD-CBRN Base 19 in Ibadan. He submitted his resignation through the Commissioner of Police, Oyo State Command, to the Inspector-General of Police, with the resignation taking effect on 10 August 2026.

In his letter, Daniel said the decision followed a long period of personal struggle and emotional exhaustion. He explained that his condition had made it increasingly difficult to continue serving in his current department.

“Despite my determination to remain committed to my duties, I have reached a point where I can no longer continue to endure the situation without serious consequences to my mental and emotional wellbeing,” Daniel wrote.

The police constable resignation followed several unsuccessful attempts to secure demobilisation and redeployment to another department. Daniel said he had hoped a transfer would allow him to serve more effectively and regain his motivation, but his requests were not approved.

He said he continued carrying out his duties while hoping conditions would improve. However, he added that his passion, morale and wellbeing continued to decline.

“I believe it would be unfair to the Force and to myself to remain in a position where I can no longer perform at my highest level,” he said.

Daniel stressed that his police constable resignation was not due to a lack of appreciation for the Force. Instead, he described it as a necessary step to protect his mental health and restore stability.

He thanked the Nigeria Police Force for the opportunity to serve, as well as for the training and professional experience he gained. He then appealed to the Inspector-General of Police to approve his resignation.

Should police authorities review how officers facing prolonged distress are supported?