The Nigerian Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has directed an immediate stop to unnecessary arrests and detention of youths across the country. This directive also includes halting the arbitrary collection and checking of phones.
According to a police wireless message dated December 13, 2024, and addressed to all State Commands, the police hierarchy emphasized that such impunity and unlawful attitudes are portraying the Nigeria Police Force in bad light. The message partly read: “Arbitrary Arrest X Detention X NIGPOL DCPS ABUJA DIRECTS X HENCEFORTH X THERE SHOULD BE NO UNNECESSARY ARREST AND DETENTION OF YOUTHS X COLLECTING OF PHONES X CHECKING OF PHONES X AT CHECKING POINTS X THESE SHOULD STOP X”
The police authorities warned that henceforth, any police personnel caught indulging in the prohibited acts would be punished, including the Commissioner of Police of the command and their supervisors.
Human rights activist Omoyele Sowore has criticized the IGP, stating that he has been engaging in egregious violations of human rights since his appointment. Sowore also alleged that the IGP’s tenure was illegally extended by President Bola Tinubu.
The directive comes amid reports of human rights abuses and arbitrary arrests by the police. The Nigeria Police Force has been under scrutiny for its handling of protests and detentions.
