The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has issued a strong warning to officers of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) against unlawful and prolonged detentions, emphasizing that any violation of constitutional human rights provisions will attract serious consequences.
This was contained in a statement released on Sunday and signed by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi.
The statement, titled “Human Rights: IGP Warns Personnel Against Incessant, Unlawful Detentions,” reiterated the police leadership’s commitment to upholding due process in all detention procedures.
According to the statement, Egbetokun reminded police personnel of their obligation to respect fundamental rights, particularly in pre-trial detentions.
He stressed that adherence to legally stipulated detention periods is both a legal duty and a necessity for upholding human dignity, as guaranteed under Sections 34 and 35 of the Nigerian Constitution, which protect the right to dignity and personal liberty.
“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 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 statement read.
Egbetokun further cautioned that unlawful detentions could erode public trust in the police and vowed that any officer found guilty of such infractions would be held accountable.
“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 continued.
He also underscored the need for a culture of accountability within the Force, urging officers to uphold the highest standards in their dealings with the public.
“By prioritising 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 statement added.
Reaffirming the Force’s commitment to lawful and ethical policing, Egbetokun assured Nigerians that individuals in police custody would be treated with dignity and in accordance with the law.
“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,” the statement concluded.
IFECITYBLOG reports that this directive underscores the IGP’s resolve to enhance professionalism and accountability within the Nigeria Police Force while fostering public confidence in law enforcement.
Post a Comment