“Nigerian IGP Addresses Malicious Petitions and Ethical Misconduct in the Force”
The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, has raised concerns over what he called the “unwarranted and unethical” practices within the Nigerian Police Force, particularly the indiscriminate transfer of ongoing cases and the misuse of public office by some officers.
In a statement released on Tuesday by the Force Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the IGP expressed his dismay over these actions, warning that any officer found engaging in such misconduct will face “strict disciplinary actions.” He highlighted how these practices undermine thorough investigations and erode public trust in the police force.
Egbetokun made it clear that such unethical behavior would no longer be tolerated under his watch. He emphasized the importance of transparency, professionalism, and accountability, asserting that these values must remain the foundation of policing in Nigeria.
The IGP further instructed all supervising officers and personnel, especially those in investigative units, to handle cases with the utmost diligence, integrity, and respect for the law.
On the issue of land-related matters, Egbetokun reminded officers that the police have no jurisdiction over purely civil matters unless there is an underlying criminal element. Even then, he stated that investigations must be supervised by the State Commissioners of Police, who would be held responsible for the process and outcome.
Egbetokun also addressed the growing issue of malicious or frivolous petitions aimed at harassment. He introduced a new directive requiring all petitions submitted to the police to include a declaration confirming their authenticity. Petitioners must now state that their complaints have not been submitted to any other law enforcement agency or, if they have, that they were withdrawn before approaching the police.
He warned that petitioners found guilty of filing false or malicious complaints would face the appropriate sanctions for providing misleading information to the police.
With these measures, the IGP aims to restore professionalism and ensure that police investigations are carried out with integrity, ultimately enhancing the public’s confidence in the Nigerian Police Force.
