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The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has warned officers of the Nigeria Police Force against unlawful and prolonged detentions.
He stressed that any officer found violating constitutional provisions on human rights will face serious consequences.
This is detailed in a statement released on Sunday, and signed by the Force Public Relations Officer ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi.
The IG reaffirmed the police leadership’s commitment to upholding human rights and ensuring due process in all detention procedures.
The statement, titled “Human Rights: IGP Warns Personnel Against Incessant, Unlawful Detentions,” cautioned against detentions beyond the legally stipulated period.
“The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, has issued a stern reminder to all members of the Nigeria Police Force regarding the importance of respecting fundamental rights in the context of pre-trial detentions.
“The 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,” the statement read.
Egbetokun further noted that unlawful detentions erode public trust in the police and vowed that erring officers would be sanctioned.
“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,” the statement continued.
Calling for a culture of accountability within the Force, the police chief urged officers to maintain the highest standards in their interactions with the public.
“By prioritising 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 statement added.
Reiterating the Force’s commitment to upholding the law while safeguarding human dignity, the IG assured Nigerians that individuals in police custody would be treated lawfully and with 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 statement concluded.
PUNCH Online reports that this directive follows growing public concern over reports of arbitrary arrests and detentions by some police officers.
