Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has drawn a firm line against the practice of unlawful and extended detention within the Nigeria Police Force, declaring that such actions will be met with severe disciplinary repercussions. In a decisive move to restore public confidence, Egbetokun stressed that adherence to legal detention timelines is non-negotiable, and any deviation will be treated as a grave breach of professional conduct.
The IG’s directive, relayed through Force spokesman Muyiwa Adejobi, underscores a zero-tolerance stance towards practices that erode the fundamental rights of citizens. He articulated that prolonged and illegal detentions not only violate constitutional provisions but also inflict irreparable damage on the police force’s credibility.
“We are not a lawless entity,” Egbetokun asserted, emphasizing the sanctity of Sections 34 and 35 of the Nigerian Constitution, which safeguard human dignity and personal liberty. “The days of impunity are over. Officers must understand that pre-trial detention is a legal process, not a tool for arbitrary control.”
He warned that any officer found disregarding these principles will face swift and decisive action, signaling a commitment to fostering a culture of accountability within the force. Egbetokun further called for a paradigm shift in police-citizen interactions, urging officers to conduct their duties with unwavering integrity and respect for human rights.
“Our mission is to serve and protect, not to oppress,” the IG stated. “The public’s trust is our most valuable asset, and we will not allow it to be squandered by the actions of a few.”
Adejobi reiterated that the current police leadership is dedicated to upholding human rights as a cornerstone of its operational philosophy. He affirmed that the force is committed to ensuring that all individuals in custody are treated with respect and in accordance with the law. This commitment reflects a strategic vision of a police force that is both effective in maintaining law and order and deeply invested in safeguarding the rights and dignity of every Nigerian.
