Following IGP Directive, Lagos CP Warns Officers Against Extortion, Rights Violations
THECONSCIENCE NG reports that the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, CP Olohundare Jimoh, has held a strategic lecture and meeting with Deputy Commissioners of Police (DCPs), Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers (DPOs), Heads of Departments, and Tactical Commanders to reinforce discipline, professionalism, and adherence to the directives of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun.
The high-level meeting focused on police conduct, operational ethics, and public relations in line with the IGP’s directive for improved service delivery across the Force.
This was disclosed in a statement on Friday signed by SP Abimbola Adebisi, Police Public Relations Officer, Lagos State Command.
According to the statement, the Police Commissioner issued a stern warning against all forms of extortion, harassment, human rights violations, and name-calling, particularly targeting young Nigerians. He reminded officers of their duty to respect the dignity and rights of every citizen while discharging their responsibilities.
“Crime prevention must be carried out with a human face. Police officers must never subject Nigerians to unnecessary hardship or abuse their powers under any guise,” the Commissioner was quoted as saying.
He particularly cautioned against the unlawful practice of stopping and searching citizens’ mobile phones, describing it as an abuse of authority. According to him, phone checks are strictly prohibited except when such devices are confirmed exhibits in cases already under investigation.
“Searches of this nature are to be conducted only within the police station and in line with due process — not on the roadside. Any officer found violating this directive will face disciplinary action,” CP Jimoh warned.
Reviewing the Command’s achievements for the month, the Commissioner highlighted key arrests, including Samsideen Oladiti (a.k.a. Shameleon) linked to two violent crimes; Jude Onouha, leader of a notorious vehicle vandalism gang who disguised as a security guard to gain access to estates and John Samuel, an ex-convict and armed robber arrested for attempted murder and robbery involving gold jewellery worth millions of naira.
CP Jimoh said the arrests demonstrate the Command’s commitment to ridding the state of criminal elements and safeguarding lives and property. He urged residents to continue cooperating with law enforcement by providing credible information on criminal activities within their communities.
“The Lagos State Police Command remains dedicated to ensuring public trust and security through discipline, transparency, and responsive policing,” SP Abimbola Adebisi stated.
