Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun has issued a stern warning to officers against illegal detention, stating that such actions will come with serious consequences.
In a statement released by Muyiwa Adejobi, the Force spokesman, the IGP said there is a legally stipulated period for detentions, citing sections 34 and 35 of the Nigerian Constitution “which guarantees the right to dignity and personal liberty”.
“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 issued on Sunday read.
“Calling for a culture of accountability within the Force, the IGP thereby encourages officers to uphold the highest standards of conduct in their interactions with the public.”
According to the police chief, the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) wants to build stronger relationships with the communities it serves and ensure that policing is done with integrity
“The Nigeria Police Force is committed to ensuring that all individuals in custody are treated with respect and in accordance with the law,” the statement added.
“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.”
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In reply, please quote;
Ref No. CZ.5300/FPRD/FHQ/ABJ/VOL.6/401 Date: March 23, 2025.
The Director of News
…………………………….
PRESS RELEASE
HUMAN RIGHTS: IGP WARNS PERSONNEL AGAINST INCESSANT, UNLAWFUL DETENTIONS.
Cautions against Detention Beyond 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 the 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 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. Calling for a culture of accountability within the Force, the IGP thereby encourage officers to uphold the highest standards of conduct in their interactions with the public.
By prioritizing 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 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.
ACP OLUMUYIWA ADEJOBI, mnipr, mipra, fCAI,
FORCE PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICER,
FORCE HEADQUARTERS,
ABUJA.
23RD MARCH 2025
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