The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has directed that no police operative should be seen carrying assault rifles while dressed in civilian attire.
He also issued a stern warning to all officers regarding breaches of human rights, emphasizing the Force’s duty to uphold these rights.
Speaking during a virtual meeting with strategic police managers on February 10, Egbetokun acknowledged receiving numerous complaints about human rights violations through the Force’s complaint channels.
A statement from the Force Public Relations Officer, Mr. Muyiwa Adejobi, revealed that the meeting aimed to reinforce operational integrity and improve management within the Nigeria Police Force.
During the session, Egbetokun addressed several pressing issues to strengthen the ethical and professional conduct of police personnel nationwide. He emphasized that any violation of human rights would not be tolerated and would result in severe consequences.
The IGP also warned all tactical squads against the misuse of power and improper dressing, stressing the importance of operating in approved uniforms. He clarified that no operative should be carrying assault weapons (rifles) while dressed in civilian clothes (mufti).
“All tactical squads must comply with the standard operating procedure and be properly dressed in the assigned uniforms for their respective squads,” he said.
Furthermore, the IGP condemned the indiscriminate transfer of cases without written approval from the IGP, deeming such conduct highly prohibited as it could delay justice and place unnecessary burdens on parties involved.
Concluding the meeting, Egbetokun directed that all ranks work collaboratively to prevent any irresponsible actions that could tarnish the reputation of the Force.
