IGP threatens to deal with special commanders over police brutality

Mohamed Adamu, inspector-general of police (IGP), has lamented the frequent cases of police brutality across the country.

Speaking when he met commanders of special police units in Abuja on Wednesday, Adamu said there have been cases of misuse of firearms and incivility against citizens by police officers.

He said such brutality perpetrated by the units including police mobile force, special protection unit and counterterrorism unit, will, henceforth, be dealt with decisively.

The police IG said: “Of late, there have been reports of incidents of incivility to citizens, misuse of firearms, deployment of personnel on unauthorized duties and mounting of illegal road blocks by personnel under your watch all against extant directives of the leadership of the Nigeria police force.

“These unprofessional and illegal conducts are most intolerable. Your primary duty is the protection of the lives and property of citizens and strict adherence to force orders and directives in so doing.

“Indeed, the need to perform your duties within the dictates of rule of law and best internal standards is sacrosanct and should never be compromised under any circumstances or guise.”

Adamu reminded the officers that their successes are not only judged by preventing crimes but also by the extent to which their operations conform to professional and legal standards.

He asked the commanders not to compromise discipline and respect for the rights of the citizens.

“Doing otherwise shall, henceforth, attract stern disciplinary actions against you, including possibility of removing you as commanders for lacking professional leadership competency,” he added.