The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Olatunji Disu, has issued a stern warning to Commissioners of Police and other senior officers across Nigeria, declaring that illegal detention, abuse of office, corruption, extortion and other forms of professional misconduct will no longer be tolerated within the Nigeria Police Force (NPF).
The directive comes amid growing public scrutiny of police conduct and renewed calls for greater accountability, professionalism and respect for human rights in law enforcement.
Speaking during the Inspector-General of Police Meeting with Police Strategic Managers held at the Goodluck Ebele Jonathan Peacekeeping Hall, Force Headquarters, Abuja, the IGP charged police commanders to lead by example and ensure strict adherence to the rule of law while discharging their constitutional responsibilities.
Leadership Must Be Built on Integrity
Addressing Commissioners of Police and other strategic commanders, Disu emphasized that effective policing begins with disciplined and accountable leadership.
He reminded the senior officers that they are custodians of public trust and must inspire confidence through integrity, professionalism and exemplary conduct.
“Effective policing starts with effective leadership. As Commissioners of Police and strategic commanders, you are custodians of public confidence in your commands. Leadership is not measured by the authority you hold, but by the standards you set, the confidence you inspire and the results you deliver,” the IGP stated.
No Tolerance for Misconduct
The police chief warned that any conduct capable of tarnishing the image and reputation of the Nigeria Police Force would attract severe disciplinary measures.
He specifically condemned corruption, unlawful detention, abuse of authority, extortion and other unethical practices, describing them as major obstacles to effective policing and public confidence.
“Corruption, extortion, abuse of authority, unlawful detention and other unethical conduct undermine the efforts of the Nigeria Police Force to deliver effective service. Such actions will not be tolerated under my leadership,” Disu warned.
Respect for Human Rights Remains Paramount
The Inspector-General stressed that restoring public confidence in the police requires unwavering respect for the fundamental rights of citizens and strict compliance with constitutional provisions and established policing procedures.
He directed Commissioners of Police to ensure that officers under their commands remain operationally prepared while maintaining professionalism, accountability and respect for the dignity of every Nigerian.
According to him, public trust can only be sustained when police officers discharge their duties fairly, transparently and within the limits of the law.
Police Reform Through Accountability
The IGP reiterated the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to ongoing institutional reforms aimed at strengthening discipline, improving service delivery and enhancing professionalism across all commands.
He urged senior officers to intensify supervision of personnel, enforce ethical standards and cultivate a culture of accountability capable of rebuilding citizens’ confidence in the Force.
The meeting with Police Strategic Managers forms part of the Force leadership’s efforts to review operational strategies, improve internal discipline and reposition the Nigeria Police Force as a professional institution committed to protecting lives, property and the fundamental rights of all Nigerians.
