The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Dr. Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, has reassured Nigerians of the Nigeria Police Force’s (NPF) unwavering commitment to accountability and transparency in its operations.
Speaking at the National Summit on Police Accountability, held on December 3, 2024, at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel, Abuja, the IGP emphasized that these principles are integral to fostering public trust and enhancing community safety.
Delivering his keynote address, the IGP stated:
“Police accountability is a cornerstone of democratic policing. To build a more effective and trustworthy law enforcement system, we need collaboration from all stakeholders.”
Since assuming office, the IGP has implemented several measures to promote internal oversight and ensure police accountability. These include expanding the Complaint Response Unit, reorganizing the IGP Monitoring Unit, and enhancing public engagement efforts.
The summit was attended by notable dignitaries, including Senator (Dr.) Ibrahim Gaidam, Honourable Minister of Police Affairs, represented by Mrs. Bolanle Aderenle, Director of Inspectorate; DIG Hashimu Salihu Argungu (Rtd), Chairman of the Police Service Commission; and Mr. Cheikh Ousmane Toure, a representative of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) Nigeria.
Highlighting the importance of public involvement, the IGP reiterated:
“The police cannot fulfil the responsibility of accountability in isolation. Citizens must engage actively in the process to bridge the divide between law enforcement and the community.”
Standardizing Forensic Processes
In a related development, the IGP has announced plans to restructure and standardize police forensic processes and procedures to enhance the effectiveness of investigations and criminal prosecutions.
This was disclosed during a meeting with a UNODC delegation and a group of Police Crime Scene Investigators who recently completed comprehensive training on modern forensic practices.
According to the IGP:
“This initiative reflects a proactive approach by the police force to adapt to the evolving landscape of criminal activities and leverage advanced forensic techniques to enhance the overall efficiency and credibility of police operations and judicial outcomes.”
The IGP’s commitment to standardizing forensic processes is seen as a crucial step in improving investigative outcomes, ensuring fairness in the justice system, and reinforcing public confidence in law enforcement.
Transforming the Police Force
The Nigeria Police Force remains steadfast in its mission to foster a culture of accountability, where every officer upholds justice and equity. The IGP emphasized that the transformation of the NPF into a world-class institution requires collective efforts from law enforcement and citizens alike.
The Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, reaffirmed the police’s dedication to building a transparent and trusted institution, stating:
“The Nigeria Police Force is committed to fostering a system where every citizen can hold the police accountable, ensuring justice and equity at all levels.”
