The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has issued a stern directive prohibiting arbitrary arrests, detention, and the searching of phones by police officers across Nigeria. The move aims to curb human rights abuses and rebuild public trust in the Nigeria Police Force.

The directive, dated December 13, 2024, was conveyed through a police wireless message titled, “Order and Directives: Arbitrary Arrest and Detention.” Addressed to all state commands, it was signed by the Department of Operations at Force Headquarters, Abuja.

The IGP expressed concern over how such unlawful actions have tarnished the image of the police force. He warned that officers caught violating the directive would face strict disciplinary measures, along with their Commissioners of Police and supervisors.

“These unlawful acts culminated in the End-SARS protests, which led to the destruction of properties and loss of lives.”

To ensure compliance, Egbetokun announced the deployment of monitoring units to enforce the new order. He reiterated that the Nigeria Police Force must desist from actions such as phone checks, unnecessary arrests, and detentions, especially at checkpoints.

“This attitude is portraying the Nigeria Police Force in a bad image. Any officer found indulging in such prohibited acts will be disciplined, including their supervisors and command leadership,” the directive read.