In a bold move aimed at restoring professionalism and curbing human rights violations, the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has issued a directive prohibiting police officers dressed in civilian attire, commonly known as mufti, from carrying assault weapons. This ban, announced during a virtual meeting with top police brass, is seen as part of the IGP’s ongoing efforts to re-establish ethical standards and operational integrity within the Nigeria Police Force (NPF).
“From now on, no operative should be seen carrying assault rifles or any form of heavy weaponry while dressed in civilian clothes,” Egbetokun emphasized during the meeting, which was held with key police managers across the country.
The IGP’s directive comes amidst mounting public concerns and complaints about the actions of police officers, particularly those in mufti, allegedly involved in human rights violations. Several reports have reached the NPF’s complaint channels detailing instances where policemen, under the guise of civilians, have engaged in unlawful activities, sometimes involving the use of excessive force.
Tackling Human Rights Violations Head-On
During the session, Egbetokun made it clear that the police force would no longer tolerate any form of human rights abuse, stressing the crucial role the NPF plays in safeguarding the rights of Nigerian citizens.
“We cannot afford to violate the very rights we are sworn to protect,” the IGP stated. “Any police officer found violating human rights will face severe consequences. We are not above the law, and no officer should be an exception to this rule.”
The IGP’s comments come on the heels of numerous reports of abuse and misconduct by officers, including cases of unlawful detentions, extortion, and violent acts. As part of the strategy to address these issues, Egbetokun has vowed to enhance internal oversight and ensure that any officer found guilty of misconduct faces disciplinary action.
Zero Tolerance for Misuse of Power
Aside from the ban on carrying guns in mufti, Egbetokun also warned all tactical units within the police force to adhere strictly to the guidelines governing the use of force and the wearing of uniforms. He underscored that officers must wear the appropriate uniforms for their designated units to maintain professionalism and prevent confusion in their interactions with the public.
“The misuse of power by our tactical squads will not be tolerated under any circumstances,” Egbetokun declared. “We must present ourselves as an institution of law and order. Any deviation from the standard operating procedures is unacceptable.”
The IGP’s stance on tactical squads also touches on their behavior and the ethical handling of cases. Egbetokun issued a stern reminder about the importance of obtaining approval for case transfers from the IGP’s office, emphasizing that transferring cases without due authorization had caused unnecessary delays and further hampered justice.
Reinforcing Professionalism in the NPF
This latest move by the IGP is part of a broader initiative aimed at instilling discipline and accountability within the police force. Following a series of high-profile scandals and complaints about police brutality, especially in the aftermath of the #EndSARS protests in 2020, the NPF has been under intense scrutiny. Egbetokun, who took office as IGP in 2024, has made it clear that his leadership will be defined by his commitment to reforming the force and ensuring it upholds the principles of justice and fairness.
“We must work together as a force to prevent any irresponsible actions that could tarnish the reputation we have worked so hard to build,” Egbetokun said, urging police officers across the country to adhere to the highest standards of conduct.
Public Reactions and Anticipations
The IGP’s new directives have been met with mixed reactions from the public. Some Nigerians have expressed hope that the ban on guns for policemen in mufti will reduce the number of cases involving police harassment and extrajudicial killings. Others, however, remain skeptical about the NPF’s ability to enforce these changes and hold officers accountable.
“I welcome the move to ban officers from carrying guns in mufti,” said one Lagos resident, who preferred to remain anonymous. “It’s high time the police started following rules like the rest of us. But I hope this is not just another directive that will be ignored by officers in the field.”
Civil society groups have also weighed in, calling for more robust measures to address systemic issues within the police force. Some have urged the IGP to implement independent oversight mechanisms to ensure that officers adhere to the new directives and that public complaints are addressed in a timely manner.
A Step Toward Reform
While the directive marks a significant shift in the NPF’s approach to policing, it remains to be seen how effectively these reforms will be implemented on the ground. With the IGP’s strong stance on human rights violations and the ban on police officers in mufti carrying firearms, the stage is set for a potentially new era of accountability within the Nigeria Police Force.
For now, all eyes will be on the NPF as the force navigates these changes and works to restore public trust in its operations.
