The police is the major law enforcement agency in Nigeria and other countries of the world. Created in 1963 by an Act of parliament, the NPF is a federal government establishment that is saddled with the following responsibilities:
1. Maintenance of law and order. It is the primary duty of the police to ensure peace and security of the lives and property of citizens of the country.
2. Arrest, detain and prosecute suspected lawbreakers (offenders). The police also charge persons suspected to have violated the laws to court while the court, after a fair hearing, passes judgment (gives verdict) as well as metes out punishment for the lawbreaker if found guilty.
3. Prevents people from taking laws into their hands by ensuring the peaceful and orderly conduct of citizens.
4. Helps in traffic control to ensure the free flow of vehicular movement.