IGP Egbetokun Warns Police Formations, Operatives Against Illegal Arrests, Detention
The Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, has called on all police formations and operatives to ensure strict compliance to laws guiding the arrest and detention of suspects in order to stop forthwith unwarranted arrests and detention of Nigerians.
The IGP in a statement signed by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi specifically called the attention of the men and officers of the Nigerian Police Force to the provisions of sections 34 and 35 of the Nigerian constitution which guides and guarantees the fundamental human rights of citizens.
According to the statement, “IGP emphasized that adherence to legally stipulated detention periods is not only a legal obligation but also a fundamental aspect of upholding the dignity and rights of individuals, as enshrined in Sections 34 and 35 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, which guarantees the right to dignity and personal liberty.
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“The IGP cautions against any practices that may lead to unlawful or prolonged detentions, which can undermine public trust and confidence in the police, reiterating that any officer found violating these principles will face serious consequences. Calling for a culture of accountability within the Force, the IGP thereby encourage officers to uphold the highest standards of conduct in their interactions with the public.
“By prioritizing human rights, the Nigeria Police Force aims to build stronger relationships with the communities it serves, ensuring that policing is conducted with integrity and respect.
“The Nigeria Police Force is committed to ensuring that all individuals in custody are treated with respect and in accordance with the law. The commitment of the current Police leadership to human rights reflects a broader vision of a police force that is not only effective in maintaining law and order but also dedicated to protecting the rights and dignity of all individuals.”
The Nigerian police is well known for flagrant abuse of their powers, with daily violations of the rights of citizens exemplified by illegal arrests, detention, extortion and extra-judicial killings.
The conduct of the police led to the nationwide #ENDSARS protests of 2020 that led to the mass killing of protesters at the popular Lekki tollgate in Lagos State.
Despite the fact that the Police high Command disbanded the Special Anti Robbery Squad (SARS) and replaced the unit with Special Weapons and Tactical unit (SWAT), the accusations of police brutality, extortion and killings remain rampant in Nigeria.