The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has issued a firm directive forbidding the arbitrary arrest, detention, and phone searches of youths by police officers across the country
He warned that officers found guilty, along with their supervisors, would face severe disciplinary measures.
The directive, sent through a wireless message on December 13, 2024, to all state police commands, stressed the need to address human rights violations and unlawful practices that have damaged the reputation of the Nigeria Police Force.
The police leadership expressed concern that such misconduct could provoke public outrage, recalling the 2020 #EndSARS protests, which escalated into violence, loss of lives, and widespread destruction.
The message, signed by the Department of Operations at the Force Headquarters and obtained by PidomNigeria, held police commissioners and command supervisors accountable for any violations that occurred under their supervision.
Titled “Order and Directives: Arbitrary Arrest and Detention,” the message (DTO: 111996/ and Ref: CB:0900/DOPS/FHQ/ABJ/VOL.TIO/157) stated: “Arbitrary arrests, detention, and the collection or checking of phones at checkpoints must stop immediately. Such actions tarnish the reputation of the Nigeria Police Force, contributing to the #EndSARS protests, destruction, and loss of lives. Any officer found involved in these unlawful practices, along with their supervisors, will face strict discipline. Monitoring units will be deployed to ensure compliance. Treat as very important.”
This directive reaffirms the Inspector-General’s commitment to police reform and the prevention of another crisis like the #EndSARS protests.
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Will they hear