“NO MORE ABUSE OF POWER!” — IGP Dispatches Final Warning to Police Commissioners over Illegal Detentions

By Naija Tunes Hub | News & Updates

The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has issued a stern, uncompromising warning to State Commissioners of Police (CPs) and heads of tactical units across the nation: stop the illegal detention of citizens, extortion, and abuse of office immediately—or face severe disciplinary consequences.

Addressing senior officers during a strategic meeting at the Force Headquarters, the police chief made it clear that the leadership of the Nigeria Police Force will no longer cover up or tolerate acts that violate fundamental human rights or tarnish the image of the institution.

“The police under my leadership will not tolerate human rights abuses, unlawful arrests, or prolonged detention without trial. Any commander or Divisional Police Officer (DPO) found guilty of abusing their authority will face strict administrative and legal sanctions.” — IGP Kayode Egbetokun

Key Takeaways & Directives From the Force HQ

The IGP highlighted several key measures aimed at reshaping policing standards and ensuring accountability on the streets:

• Zero Tolerance for Illegal Detentions: Officers have been explicitly instructed to adhere strictly to constitutional limits regarding arrest and detention periods. No citizen should be kept in custody beyond the legally permitted timeframe without a valid court order.
• Routine Monitoring of Cells: Tactical commanders and CPs must regularly inspect detention facilities within their jurisdictions to ensure individuals are not being held illegally or under inhuman conditions.
• Extortion & Duty Neglect: Field officers caught engaging in bail extortion, road-block intimidation, or arbitrary harassment of youths will face instant dismissal and criminal prosecution.
• Focus on Intelligence-Led Operations: Rather than indiscriminate raids, police commands were instructed to focus on targeted, intelligence-backed operations to combat kidnapping, armed robbery, and cybercrime.

Rebuilding Public Trust

This fresh directive comes amid growing public calls for civil rights enforcement and systemic reform in daily policing across Nigeria. By placing accountability squarely on the shoulders of State Commissioners and Unit Heads, the police high command aims to curb operational excesses and repair the bridge of trust between the public and law enforcement agencies.

Over to You!

Do you think this warning will lead to real changes at police stations and checkpoints near you? Let us know your thoughts in the comment section below!