Calls for Accountability, Cautions Against Violations of Constitutional Rights
The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, has issued a strong directive to officers of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), warning against unlawful and prolonged detentions that violate fundamental human rights.
In an official press release shared via the Force’s X (formerly Twitter) handle, the IGP emphasized the legal and ethical responsibility of police personnel to adhere strictly to the constitutionally stipulated detention periods. He reaffirmed that respecting the fundamental rights of individuals in police custody is not just a professional obligation but a core principle enshrined in Sections 34 and 35 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, which guarantee the right to dignity and personal liberty.
The IGP warned that any officer found engaging in unlawful detentions, arbitrary arrests, or holding suspects beyond the legally permitted timeframe will face strict disciplinary action. He stressed that such violations erode public trust, damage the reputation of the Force, and undermine the principles of justice.
To foster a culture of accountability, the IGP urged officers to conduct themselves with professionalism, integrity, and respect in their engagements with citizens. He reiterated that police personnel must ensure that detentions strictly comply with due process, avoiding any form of oppression, intimidation, or abuse of power.
Under the leadership of IGP Egbetokun, the Nigeria Police Force is deepening its commitment to human rights protection as part of broader efforts to enhance police-community relations and rebuild public confidence. The Force, he said, is dedicated to not only maintaining law and order but also ensuring that all individuals—regardless of status—are treated fairly, with dignity, and in full accordance with the law.
The statement further reassured Nigerians that the current police reforms are aimed at promoting a transparent, accountable, and citizen-friendly policing system. The IGP encouraged the public to report any cases of unlawful detentions, promising that all complaints will be thoroughly investigated and appropriate actions taken against erring officers.
The Nigeria Police Force, he concluded, remains resolute in its mission to deliver effective and humane policing, ensuring that justice, fairness, and human dignity remain at the heart of law enforcement.
SIGNED:
ACP OLUMUYIWA ADEJOBI, mnipr, mipra, fCAI
Force Public Relations Officer
Force Headquarters, Abuja
23rd March 2025
PIONEER NEWS 