Bus drivers are my headache – Cecilia

Why did you decide to go into the Police Force? I came to Abuja in 2000 after my secondary school education. I saw how organised the police personnel were here and how interesting their job seemed. I was attracted by their uniform as well. That was when the desire to be one was born in […]

Why did you decide to go into the Police Force?

I came to Abuja in 2000 after my secondary school education. I saw how organised the police personnel were here and how interesting their job seemed. I was attracted by their uniform as well. That was when the desire to be one was born in me.

I took part in an interview, passed and went on to write the exams which I passed as well. I went through the training in Kaduna, which ended in June 2003.

Did you imagine or have any desire as to what department you would like to work in?

No. I knew that it was impossible to have my mind fixed on a particular department in the Police Force. So I was open to work in any department or location. Wherever I was posted to, I worked with enthusiasm and the zeal to make a difference. I love the job and it didn’t matter to me where I was sent.

How did you feel when you were posted to the traffic unit?

I was happy.

You didn’t feel shy or that it would expose you as a woman?

No, not at all. I was not shy for even one day till today. It is my source of livelihood and daily bread. I can’t afford to be embarrassed or shy about it. I put all those in a corner and faced the job squarely. Even my experience on the first day was enough to spur me on.

People were praising and commending me over the way I went about decongesting the heavy traffic. When your efforts are recognised and commended, you are encouraged to do more and even better.

How did you come about the unique way in which you conduct traffic?

First, it is not possible to stand in one position to conduct traffic; otherwise, you will have pains in your legs. I decided to enjoy what I do while still giving the service that I am supposed to render. I don’t care whether people are looking or laughing at me. It is about me and how best I can carry out my duty, so that when I go home at night, I am satisfied that I have served people.

What are some of your experiences like in the line of duty, especially with commercial drivers?

You know how these people are. They just don’t listen or obey the instructions you give to provoke you sometimes. The bus drivers are my headache.

When you stop them, they don’t like to obey. They want to be on the move all the time and others should wait on them. But my training and words from my DPO is to be calm and resolve the situation as amicably as I can. So far, none has been rude to me and I am able to manage them well.

How early do you have to leave your house in Mararaba to get to work?

I am up at 4.30am to prepare, and by 5.00am, I am out of the house so that I can report at the Life Camp Police Station before 6.00am. By six, depending on the density of traffic, I resume duty at the Airport Junction.

What is it like working with men?

It is interesting and challenging as a woman in what could otherwise be regarded as a male domain. But in fairness to my male colleagues, they have been very cooperative and have helped me enjoy the job. Besides, in the police force, we are all men.

The DPO here used to advise us to be active and punctual to work. He also advised us against insulting and mistreating the public. So my colleagues and I advise one another in like manner and point out and correct our errors when necessary.

How did you feel when you got that award in 2008?

It was a very big surprise for me. I wasn’t expecting it at all. It was the first public recognition that I got after just five years on the job.

I felt so happy and for me to be one of the chosen few and the only woman for that matter, I was really elated.

It has encouraged me to work harder and better. God rewards hard work. The award, I believe, was one of my rewards and I am doing better so that I will get promoted.

Would you want any of your children to be in the Police Force?

Oh yes! That one is for sure. It is my prayer that one of my children of his/her own freewill will opt to take on the same career path as I have. I won’t force it on any of them, but I will be very glad if any one of them decides to become a policeman or woman.

Where do you see yourself in the near future?

I have my desires which I am putting before God and asking that His will shall be done concerning them. I hope to still be in the Police Force with the opportunity to serve my nation and retire from here.

Does your fiancé complain about your work?

(Laughing) Which man would with a woman working the way I am? Yes, he does. But trust is what has kept us together. Even then, he doesn’t take chances. He takes me to work and comes to pick me up. I guess he has to protect his interest jealously.