Borno Police Command Announces Tragic Death of ACP Abubakar Balteh in Vehicle Accident
The Borno State Police Command has officially confirmed the untimely demise of Assistant Commissioner of Police, State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), ACP Abubakar A. Balteh. According to a statement released by the command's Public Relations Officer, ASP Nahum Daso, on February 21, 2026, the senior officer passed away in a fatal vehicle accident on the same day. The statement expressed deep regret over the loss, noting that ACP Balteh had served diligently in his role until his sudden death.
Details of the Accident and Police Statement
In the official release, ASP Daso provided specific details, stating, "The Borno State Police Command regrets the passing of ACP Abubakar A. Balteh, who passed away today, 21st February, 2026, in a fatal vehicle accident. Until his demise, he served diligently as the Assistant Commissioner of Police, State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Borno State Command." The police spokesperson further explained that information regarding burial arrangements and other related matters would be communicated at a later time. He concluded with a prayer, saying, "May Almighty Allah forgive his shortcomings and grant him eternal rest."
Recent Leadership Losses in Borno Police Command
This tragic incident follows another significant loss for the Borno State Police Command, which occurred in November 2025. At that time, the command announced the death of Deputy Commissioner of Police, SCID, DCP Ahmed Ibn Umar, who succumbed to a prolonged illness at the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital (UMTH). In a similar statement, ASP Daso had expressed condolences, highlighting DCP Umar's dedicated service. The consecutive deaths of these senior officers within the State Criminal Investigation Department have raised concerns about the potential impact on the command's leadership structure and operational effectiveness.
Broader Context of Police Officer Deaths in Nigeria
The loss of ACP Balteh adds to a broader pattern of fatalities among police officers in Nigeria. For instance, in 2024, the Nigeria Police Force reported that 140 officers died in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, due to factors such as high blood pressure and extremist activities. According to FCT Commissioner of Police Olatunji Disu, some officers passed away in their sleep or collapsed at work. The police have stated that they provided entitlements and support to the families of the deceased officers, as part of ongoing efforts to address welfare concerns within the force.
Historical Background of the Nigeria Police Force
The Nigeria Police Force has a long history, tracing its origins back to 1820 with the establishment of the first police organization. Key developments include the creation of the Royal Niger Company Constabulary in Lokoja in 1888, the Niger Coast Constabulary in Calabar in 1894, and the Lagos Police in 1896. Following the amalgamation of the Northern and Southern protectorates in the early 1900s, regional forces emerged, which were later merged in 1930 to form the unified Nigeria Police Force. Today, it operates as the country's principal law enforcement agency under the Ministry of Police Affairs, with its headquarters located in Abuja.
The death of ACP Abubakar Balteh underscores the challenges faced by law enforcement personnel in Nigeria, particularly in regions like Borno, where security operations are critical. As the police command mourns this loss, attention turns to how such incidents affect morale and leadership continuity within the force.
