The Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, has warned personnel of the Nigeria Police Force that any act of human rights violation on their part will be met with severe consequences .
The IGP gave the warning on Monday during a virtual meeting with strategic police managers in which he addressed several pressing issues which aim to bolster the ethical and professional conduct of police personnel across the nation.
TheFact Daily notes that only very recently, a viral video that captured moments police officers of the Akwa Ibom stare police command manhandled a pregnant woman, dragging her forcefully until she collapsed to the ground, drew outrage from the public who condemned the action as barbaric and unbecoming of an operative of the Force, who should uphold the security of lives of the people.
IGP Egbetokun emphasized the duty of the Force to uphold these rights, and frowned against such acts, having received various complaints regarding Human Rights Violations through the Force’s complaint channels.
The IGP also warned all tactical squads against the misuse of power and improper dressing, emphasizing the importance of operating in approved uniforms. He directed that no operative should be seen carrying assault arms (rifles) while dressed in civilian attire (mufti). All tactical squads are to ensure compliance with the standard operating procedure, while properly dressed in the assigned uniform for the particular squad.
The IGP further emphasized on the indiscriminate transfer of cases without his written approval, stressing that the conduct is highly prohibited and would no longer be tolerated, as such acts expose the parties to unnecessary burdens and delayed justice in their cases.
He concluded by directing that all ranks must work collaboratively to prevent any irresponsible acts that can tarnish the reputation of the Force.
