IGP bans arbitrary arrests, detentions, phone searches by police officers

The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has issued a strict directive prohibiting the arbitrary arrest, detention, and phone searches of youths by police officers nationwide.

He warned that officers found guilty, along with their supervisors, would face severe disciplinary action.

The directive, communicated via a wireless message dated December 13, 2024, was sent to all state police commands. It highlighted the urgent need to address human rights violations and unlawful practices that have tarnished the image of the Nigeria Police Force.

The police leadership expressed concern that such misconduct could reignite public anger, referencing the 2020 #EndSARS protests, which escalated into widespread violence, loss of lives, and destruction of property.

The wireless message, signed by the Department of Operations at the Force Headquarters and obtained by PidomNigeria, held police commissioners and command supervisors accountable for any breaches occurring under their watch.

Titled “Order and Directives: Arbitrary Arrest and Detention”, the message (DTO: 111996/ and Ref: CB:0900/DOPS/FHQ/ABJ/VOL.TIO/157) emphasized:
“Arbitrary arrests, detention, and the collection or checking of phones at checkpoints must cease immediately. Such actions portray the Nigeria Police Force in a bad light, having contributed to the #EndSARS protests, destruction of properties, and loss of lives in the past. Any officer caught engaging in these unlawful practices, along with their command supervisors, will face strict discipline. Monitoring units will be deployed to enforce compliance. Treat as very important.”

This directive underscores the Inspector-General’s commitment to reforming the police force and preventing a repeat of the unrest seen during the #EndSARS protests.