The Commissioner of Police in charge of the Federal Capital Territory, Ahmed Sanusi, has said detention facilities under his command are now equipped with air conditioners to ensure better treatment of suspects in custody.
Sanusi made this known on Wednesday during a press briefing in Abuja, where he stressed the need to respect the dignity and rights of individuals held by the police.
According to him, suspects should not be treated as criminals before they are proven guilty in court. He explained that improving conditions in police cells is part of efforts to promote human rights and build public trust in law enforcement.
“To the extent to which I have been upholding human rights, even my cells have air conditioners,” Sanusi said. “I make sure I install air conditioners for suspects. When they leave, they are happier and speak positively about the police.”
He added that treating suspects well can change public perception of the police and encourage better cooperation between citizens and law enforcement agencies.
Sanusi, who recently assumed duty as the 35th Commissioner of Police in the FCT, said his approach is based on the belief that all individuals deserve respect, regardless of the allegations against them.
“The fact that we arrest you does not mean you are condemned,” he said. “Your fate will be decided by the court. While you are with us, we will give you the best treatment possible.”
The statement comes at a time when concerns about conditions in police detention facilities across Nigeria remain a major issue. Over the years, human rights groups have criticised poor conditions in many police cells, including overcrowding, lack of ventilation, and inadequate access to basic needs.
Reports of abuse and harsh treatment of suspects have also affected public confidence in the police. In response, authorities have repeatedly promised reforms aimed at improving accountability and respecting human rights.
Sanusi’s remarks suggest a shift in approach within the Nigeria Police Force, especially in the nation’s capital. Observers say such measures, if fully implemented, could help improve the image of the police and reduce tension between officers and the public.
The issue of police conduct gained national attention during the End SARS protests, when thousands of young Nigerians took to the streets to demand an end to police brutality and abuse. The protests led to calls for reforms, including better training, improved welfare for officers, and more humane treatment of suspects.
While some changes have been introduced since then, many Nigerians still believe more needs to be done to address long-standing problems within the system.
Sanusi said his command is committed to doing things differently by focusing on professionalism and respect for human dignity.
He also noted that providing decent conditions for suspects does not mean the police will be soft on crime. According to him, law enforcement efforts will continue to be firm, especially against those involved in acts that threaten public safety and infrastructure.
In particular, the police boss issued a strong warning to individuals involved in vandalising public infrastructure, especially manholes in the FCT.
“Anybody arrested in connection with manhole vandalisation will not be treated as an ordinary thief,” he said.
Manhole vandalism has become a growing concern in Abuja and other major cities in Nigeria. Criminals often remove metal covers from roads and drainage systems to sell as scrap, leaving open holes that pose serious risks to motorists and pedestrians.
There have been several cases of accidents and injuries linked to missing manhole covers, prompting calls for stricter enforcement and tougher penalties.
Sanusi described such acts as economic sabotage, noting that they damage public infrastructure and put lives in danger. He said the police would not only target those who steal the materials but also those who buy them.
“We will go after the buyers as well,” he said. “Without them, this crime will not continue.”
He added that the police would intensify night patrols across the FCT to prevent such crimes and improve security in the area.
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Residents of Abuja have welcomed the police’s renewed focus on the issue, as many communities have been affected by vandalism in recent months.
At the same time, some have expressed cautious optimism about the promise of improved conditions in police cells. While the installation of air conditioners may not address all challenges, it is seen as a step towards more humane treatment of suspects.
Sanusi’s comments reflect this principle, as he repeatedly stressed that suspects remain innocent until a court decides otherwise.
As he settles into his new role, the FCT police commissioner faces the challenge of balancing firm law enforcement with respect for human rights. His early statements indicate a willingness to pursue both goals.