From Victor Osula, Abuja
The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, has charged personnel of the Nigeria Police Force to respect the fundamental rights of suspects.
A statement signed on Sunday by the Force Public Relations officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, warned officers against unlawful detention of suspects.
The IGP “emphasised that adherence to legally stipulated detention periods is not only a legal obligation but also a fundamental aspect of upholding the dignity and rights of individuals, as enshrined in Sections 34 and 35 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, which guarantees the right to dignity and personal liberty.”
Reiterating the Force’s commitment to respect for fundamental human rights, Egbetokun cautioned against unlawful acts that “can undermine public trust and confidence in the police”, warning that “any officer found violating these principles will face serious consequences.”
Tasking personnel to upholding the highest standards of conduct in their interactions with the public, the IGP said “By prioritising human rights, the Nigeria Police Force aims to build stronger relationships with the communities it serves, ensuring that policing is conducted with integrity and respect.
“The Nigeria Police Force is committed to ensuring that all individuals in custody are treated with respect and in accordance with the law. The commitment of the current Police leadership to human rights reflects a broader vision of a police force that is not only effective in maintaining law and order but also dedicated to protecting the rights and dignity of all individuals.”
