NIGERIA, ABUJA – The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has instructed police officers nationwide to refrain from holding suspects in custody beyond the legally approved timeframe.
In a statement released on Sunday, the Force Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, conveyed the IGP’s stance against unlawful and extended detentions.
Egbetokun described such practices as both illegal and unethical, emphasizing that they contradict the core values of the Nigeria Police Force.
“The IGP stressed that respecting the legal timeframe for detention is not just a statutory requirement but a crucial step in safeguarding human dignity and individual rights,” the statement noted.
It referenced Sections 34 and 35 of the Nigerian Constitution, which uphold the rights to dignity and personal liberty.
Reaffirming the Police Force’s dedication to human rights, Egbetokun urged officers to handle detainees with fairness and in strict adherence to the law.
He warned that any officer found guilty of violating these principles would face disciplinary measures.
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Additionally, he called for greater accountability within the Force, advising officers to maintain the highest levels of professionalism when dealing with the public.
“The Nigeria Police Force is committed to strengthening its relationship with communities by ensuring policing is conducted with honesty, respect, and a focus on human rights,” Adejobi added.
The statement also underscored the IGP’s commitment to upholding citizens’ rights, aligning with the broader vision of fostering a more transparent and community-driven policing system.