The Inspector-General of Police, IGP, Kayode Egbetokun, has issued a strong warning to officers of the Nigeria Police Force regarding unlawful and extended detention of suspects.
Egbetokun emphasized that suspects must not be held beyond the legally prescribed time limits and cautioned that any officer found responsible for such violations will face severe disciplinary actions.
The IGP pointed out that unlawful detentions severely damage public trust in the police force and called on officers to carry out their duties with professionalism, integrity, and respect for human rights.
In a statement released on Sunday by the Force’s spokesperson, Muyiwa Adejobi, Egbetokun reiterated the importance of adhering to constitutional rights, particularly Sections 34 and 35 of the Nigerian Constitution, which protect human dignity and personal freedom.
“The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has issued a firm reminder to all police officers about the need to respect individuals’ rights, especially in relation to pre-trial detentions,” the statement read.
Egbetokun stressed that compliance with legally mandated detention periods is not just a legal requirement but a crucial element in safeguarding individual dignity and rights, as guaranteed by Nigeria’s Constitution.
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He warned against any actions that could result in unlawful or prolonged detentions, underlining that such practices erode public confidence in the police.
The IGP reaffirmed that officers found guilty of breaching these principles would face significant consequences.
He also called for a culture of accountability within the Force and urged officers to maintain the highest ethical standards in their dealings with the public.
Adejobi further emphasized the current police leadership’s commitment to upholding human rights while maintaining law and order.
“The Nigeria Police Force is devoted to ensuring that everyone in custody is treated with respect and in line with the law. The leadership’s focus on human rights reflects a broader vision of a police force that is not only effective in upholding the law but also committed to protecting the dignity and rights of all individuals,” he said.
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