The Inspector General of Police, Olatunji Disu, has declared that the Nigeria Police Force under his leadership will not tolerate any conduct that undermines human rights, weakens public confidence, or damages the institution’s credibility.
Disu made the statement during his inaugural Conference with Senior Police Officers at the Peacekeeping Conference Centre, Force Headquarters in Abuja.
According to the police chief, respect for human rights is not optional but a fundamental part of professional policing and essential for maintaining public trust.
“By upholding this standard, we reinforce the rule of law and strengthen the moral authority upon which effective policing is built,” he said.
The Inspector General also announced plans to strengthen internal accountability mechanisms within the force. He said units such as the Force Provost, the Complaint Response Unit, and the X-Squad will be empowered to investigate cases of misconduct, abuse of authority, corruption, and other unprofessional behaviour.
“To restore and sustain public confidence, our internal accountability mechanisms will be strengthened, revitalized, and isolated from undue influences,” Disu stated.
He stressed that officers found guilty of wrongdoing would face strict disciplinary measures, including dismissal and prosecution where necessary.
“The message must be clear: no officer is above the law. Citizens must feel safe and encouraged to report wrongdoings. Officers must understand that loyalty to the force does not extend to shielding misconduct or tolerating indiscipline,” he added.
Disu further warned that rank, seniority, or position would not shield any officer from punishment.
“Under this leadership, there will be no sacred cows. Officers found culpable will face swift and appropriate disciplinary actions,” he said.
The police boss noted that the authority of the police does not come solely from legal statutes but also from the trust of the public. He warned that once that trust is eroded, the effectiveness of the force is significantly weakened.
Addressing the senior officers, Disu reminded them that the police exist to serve the people, protect the nation, and uphold the rule of law.
“Under my leadership, professionalism, accountability, and transparency shall not be a slogan. It shall be the standard,” he said.
He also urged officers to exercise restraint and fairness in the discharge of their duties, noting that every action by police personnel reflects on the entire force, especially in an era of instant communication and heightened public scrutiny.
“As leaders, we must remember that authority is strongest when it is exercised with restraint, fairness, and sound judgment,” Disu added.
