Commissioner of Police for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), CP Ajao S. Adewale, has issued a decisive warning to officers under his command, stressing the need for professionalism and a firm adherence to the rule of law.
His directive specifically targets widespread concerns about illegal detentions, interference in civil matters—particularly land disputes—and the extortion of both complainants and suspects.
In a statement issued in Abuja over the weekend by the FCT Police Command’s spokesperson, SP Josephine Adeh, the Commissioner made clear that such misconduct not only breaches constitutional rights but also flouts directives from the Inspector-General of Police.
According to the statement, the CP has ordered Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers (DPOs), and Heads of Departments (HODs) to immediately review the status of individuals detained over bailable offences and to facilitate their release, provided proper documentation and verifiable sureties are presented.
CP Adewale reiterated a long-standing policy: bail is free. He warned that any officer caught demanding payment for bail or documentation processes would face stringent disciplinary measures. He equally emphasized the importance of non-intervention in matters that fall outside the scope of criminal law, particularly land disputes and other civil issues which are within the purview of the courts, not the police.
“Officers must understand their limits and the legal boundaries of their responsibilities. Anyone found to be in violation, including those in supervisory positions who allow such actions to occur unchecked, will be held responsible,” the statement noted. It also condemned the practice of requesting money before initiating investigations, describing it as outright extortion and a severe abuse of office. Such behaviour, the CP said, will attract prosecution in accordance with the law.
Members of the public were likewise cautioned against engaging in bribery, which constitutes a criminal offence under Section 118 of the Penal Code Act. The Command advised citizens to refrain from using police officers to pursue personal vendettas or recover debts, highlighting that the police are not instruments of private enforcement.
The FCT Command called on residents to stand behind its ongoing reform efforts by promoting accountability, human rights protection, and professional policing. Residents who encounter or witness any form of misconduct by police personnel are encouraged to report directly to the Complaint Response Unit (CRU) via the hotline 08107314192.
By reinforcing these measures, CP Adewale’s directive seeks to restore public confidence and ensure that policing within the Federal Capital Territory is conducted within the boundaries of the law and in service to the people.
What you should know
CP Ajao S. Adewale is reinforcing discipline within the FCT Police Command by targeting extortion, unlawful detention, and interference in civil disputes.
He has mandated immediate release for suspects held over minor bailable offences and warned officers and supervisors of consequences for misconduct. Bail remains free, and all residents are urged to report any violations.
