IGP Egbetokun Bans Arbitrary Arrests, Detention of Youths, Phone Searches, and Extortion by Police Officers
By Wato News — December 17, 2024
The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has issued a directive to all police personnel, ordering an immediate end to arbitrary arrests, detention of youths, and the collection or unwarranted searching of mobile phones across Nigeria.
The decision, which comes amidst growing public outcry and criticism over cases of human rights abuses by officers, underscores the IGP’s intent to reform misconduct within the Nigeria Police Force. Egbetokun stressed that any officer found engaging in these prohibited activities will face punitive measures, including disciplinary action against supervising officers and the Commissioner of Police in the affected state command.
The directive was conveyed through a police wireless message dated December 13, 2024, addressed to all State Commands and signed by the Department of Operations at the Force Headquarters. The memo, which was obtained by Pidom Nigeria, highlighted that such unlawful behaviors are tarnishing the reputation of the Nigeria Police Force and eroding public trust.
This development comes as part of ongoing reforms to address deep-rooted issues of police misconduct, especially regarding extortion, arbitrary detentions, and rights violations frequently reported across the country. Egbetokun’s message reflects a renewed commitment to improving police-community relations and ensuring that officers adhere to professional conduct.
Sources:
Pidom Nigeria
Police Wireless Message, December 13, 2024
