The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Dr. Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, has issued a strong warning to officers of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) against engaging in unlawful and prolonged detentions.
He stressed the need for strict adherence to the legally stipulated period for holding individuals in custody, emphasizing that any violation of these rights would not be tolerated.
In a statement released by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi on Sunday, the IGP reaffirmed the commitment of the police leadership to upholding fundamental human rights as enshrined in Sections 34 and 35 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
According to him, these sections guarantee the right to dignity and personal liberty, underscoring the necessity of ensuring that no individual is detained beyond what the law permits.
He said, “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.”
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Furthermore, the IGP expressed concerns that unlawful detentions could erode public trust in the police, stating that any officer found guilty of such violations would face severe disciplinary action.
He called for a culture of accountability within the Force, urging personnel to maintain professionalism and integrity in their dealings with the public.
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The statement partly read: “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.”
Emphasizing the need for a rights-focused approach to policing, the IGP noted that fostering mutual respect between the police and the communities they serve is essential to effective law enforcement. By prioritizing human rights, the Nigeria Police Force seeks to strengthen its relationship with the public, ensuring that policing is carried out with fairness, respect, and responsibility.
The statement further reiterated the commitment of the current police leadership to maintaining law and order while simultaneously protecting the dignity of all individuals.
As part of this vision, the Force assured the public that those in custody would be treated in accordance with legal provisions, reinforcing its dedication to ethical and rights-based policing.
“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 statement said.
