Inspector General of Police Warns Against Unlawful Detentions
Nigeria’s Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has issued a strong warning to police officers nationwide regarding the illegal detention of suspects. The IGP emphasized that the Nigerian Police Force (NPF) must uphold human rights and ensure suspects are not unlawfully held beyond legally permissible limits. This directive comes amid growing concerns from human rights groups and the public regarding the treatment of detainees in police custody.
A Clear Stand on Human Rights
In his statement, the IGP reiterated that unlawful detention violates Nigerian and international legal frameworks. He stressed that officers guilty of such practices would face severe disciplinary actions, including dismissal and prosecution. “Every Nigerian has the right to fair and just treatment under the law. Officers who violate these principles undermine public trust in the force and will be held accountable,” Egbetokun stated.
His remarks were part of a broader initiative to reform policing practices in Nigeria, aiming to align them with democratic principles and international human rights standards. The directive mandates all police commands to review their detention procedures and immediately release individuals held without legal justification.
Public Concerns Over Police Conduct
The issue of unlawful detentions has been a longstanding concern in Nigeria. Many citizens and human rights organizations have decried cases of individuals being detained for extended periods without trial. Such detentions, they argue, contribute to overcrowding in police cells and prisons, worsening the conditions of the Nigerian criminal justice system.
The IGP’s statement aligns with recent calls from advocacy groups, including Amnesty International and local legal organizations, urging police reform. These groups have highlighted instances where detainees, including innocent individuals, have spent years behind bars without formal charges or due process.
A Lagos-based human rights lawyer, Adewale Ojo, praised the IGP’s directive but emphasized the need for strict enforcement. “This warning is a step in the right direction, but we need to see tangible actions. Officers who detain citizens unlawfully must face consequences. The law must not be selective,” he said.
Police Accountability Measures
To ensure compliance with the directive, the Inspector General has instructed police divisions to establish stricter oversight mechanisms. He urged citizens to report cases of unlawful detention through designated complaint channels and assured them of swift responses.
In addition, the IGP has mandated using digital tracking systems to monitor the duration of detentions. This measure prevents officers from holding suspects beyond the legally stipulated period without formal charges. Introducing these tracking systems is expected to enhance transparency and accountability within the police force.
Furthermore, police officers will undergo additional human rights training to ensure they understand the legal and ethical implications of unlawful detentions. “Our officers must be well-trained, not only in enforcing the law but also in respecting the rights of every citizen. The Nigerian Police Force must be known for justice, fairness, and professionalism,” Egbetokun stated.
Reactions from Civil Society and Legal Experts
Following the IGP’s directive, several civil society groups have expressed cautious optimism. A Human Rights Watch Nigeria office representative noted that while the warning is commendable, the government must introduce legal reforms to ensure long-term compliance. “There have been similar pronouncements in the past, but unlawful detentions will continue without real enforcement,” the representative said.
Legal experts also weighed in, stressing that the judiciary must be crucial in addressing unlawful detentions. “Magistrates should proactively visit police detention centres to assess the legality of detentions, as permitted under Nigerian law,” said Barrister Funke Adelaja.
Impact on Police Reform in Nigeria
The IGP’s directive is part of ongoing efforts to restore public confidence in the Nigerian Police Force. Over the years, allegations of human rights abuses, extortion, and brutality have tainted the image of the police, leading to public protests such as the #EndSARS movement in 2020. The call for police reform has been persistent, with citizens demanding a force that serves and protects rather than intimidates.
The Inspector General aims to demonstrate a commitment to genuine reform by addressing unlawful detentions. However, experts argue that systemic change requires sustained efforts beyond warnings. Increased oversight, community policing, and institutional accountability must be prioritized for long-lasting improvements.
Conclusion
The Inspector General’s warning against unlawful detentions marks a significant step in Nigeria’s policing reform. However, for this directive to have a lasting impact, enforcement mechanisms must be strengthened, and police officers and the judiciary must work together to uphold human rights and due process. Citizens are encouraged to report cases of unlawful detention while human rights groups continue to push for broader systemic changes.
As Nigeria moves forward in addressing these issues, the hope remains that law enforcement can embody justice, professionalism, and respect for the rights of every citizen.
