By Alexis Uchendu
The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has ordered an immediate cessation of arbitrary arrests, unlawful detentions, and the unauthorized collection or checking of citizens’ phones by police officers nationwide.
The directive, issued via a wireless message dated December 13, 2024, was addressed to all state commands and signed by the Department of Operations at Force Headquarters.
It warned that officers who flout these orders, along with their supervising commissioners of police, will face disciplinary actions.
This decision comes in response to growing public outrage over police misconduct and human rights abuses, which have repeatedly damaged the reputation of the Nigeria Police Force.
The directive also referenced the #EndSARS protests, cautioning against a repeat of the devastating aftermath caused by unchecked impunity, including the loss of lives and widespread destruction.
The message stated: “There should be no unnecessary arrests or detention of youths. The collection or checking of phones at checkpoints must stop.
These actions are tarnishing the image of the Nigeria Police Force.”
To ensure compliance, monitoring units will be deployed, and officers found violating the directive will be held accountable.
This move reflects the police leadership’s commitment to addressing misconduct, restoring public trust, and upholding professionalism within the force.
