Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun has directed an immediate end to arbitrary arrests, harassment of youths, and unauthorized phone searches by officers nationwide. The directive, issued to all state commands, aims to address rising complaints of police misconduct and restore public trust.
The directive comes in the wake of UK opposition leader Kemi Badenoch’s comments accusing Nigerian police of corruption and theft. Badenoch shared an incident involving her brother, reigniting debates on law enforcement abuse in Nigeria.
A memo from the Force Headquarters, titled “Order and Directives: Arbitrary Arrest and Detention,” emphasized holding senior officers accountable for violations. Monitoring units have been tasked to ensure compliance, with severe penalties for erring officers and their supervisors.
The move also reflects lessons from the 2020 #EndSARS protests, which were sparked by widespread reports of police brutality and significantly damaged the Nigeria Police Force’s reputation.
This decision underscores the importance of human rights and ethical policing as the force seeks to rebuild trust and enhance accountability.
