The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has once again emphasized the Nigeria Police Force’s strict prohibition on the public parade of criminal suspects.
This move, according to a statement issued by the Force Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, is part of the ongoing efforts to safeguard the fundamental human rights of all citizens and align with international best practices in law enforcement.
The IGP underscored that the public display of suspects before formal charges are filed in a court of law is a violation of their rights, and the Force is committed to upholding these rights by adhering to global policing standards.
He further highlighted the importance of this policy in ensuring that individuals, even those suspected of criminal activity, are treated with dignity and respect.
“The ban on the public parade of suspects remains in full effect, as part of the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to modern policing that upholds human rights. This policy ensures that individuals are not paraded before the media or the public before being formally charged in court,” Adejobi said in the statement.
The directive has already been communicated across all police commands and zones as part of a broader modernization effort within the Force. This policy, according to Adejobi, reflects a deep commitment to protecting the human rights of all individuals, including those suspected of criminal conduct, in line with international standards.
In addition to reiterating the ban, the IGP called on both the media and the public to support the policy by ensuring responsible and ethical reporting. He stressed that fair and impartial journalism plays a critical role in fostering public trust and promoting a just legal system.
“The media plays an integral role in shaping public perception, and it is crucial that reporting remains balanced and adheres to ethical practices. This ensures that the rights of individuals are respected, and the judicial process remains transparent and unbiased,” Egbetokun emphasized.
The IGP also sought the cooperation of the public in maintaining the integrity of the justice system. By adhering to these guidelines, he believes the Nigeria Police Force can continue to foster a culture of respect for human rights, which is essential for the fair treatment of all individuals in the judicial process.
The commitment to enforcing this policy represents a significant step in the modernization of the Nigeria Police Force and reinforces the agency’s dedication to protecting human dignity at every stage of the legal process.
