The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, has reiterated that officers of the Nigeria Police Force must stop the public parade of criminal suspects, emphasizing that the practice is a violation of fundamental human rights.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, said the police had already instructed all commands and formations to end the practice, stressing that suspects should not be publicly displayed before being formally charged in court.
“This directive is not new, and it must be strictly adhered to”.
“No suspect should be subjected to public humiliation before a court determines their guilt or innocence. The police must operate within the law and respect human dignity at all times”, the IGP said
He explained that the ban aligns with international human rights standards and best policing practices, adding that treating suspects with dignity is part of ongoing efforts to reform and modernize law enforcement in Nigeria.
Egbetokun also called on journalists to stop covering or publishing images of suspects in police custody. “The media has a responsibility to uphold ethical reporting. We urge journalists to avoid broadcasting or publishing images that infringe on the rights of suspects,” he stated.
The IGP however assured Nigerians that the police remain committed to enforcing the law professionally without violating human rights. “We will continue to promote justice and fairness while ensuring that the rights of every individual are respected,” he said.
The Nigeria Police Force urged the public to support this directive, assuring that officers would be held accountable for any violations.
