John Nwaigwe
Inspector General of Police Vows To Sanction Any Individual Filling Frivolous Petition, to harass another using the Police
As Defaulting Officers Risk Sanctions.
The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, has raised serious concerns about the unwarranted and unethical practice of transfering ongoing cases and misusing of public office by certain officers and individuals. He stressed that these practices which undermine investigations and diminish public confidence in the Force, will no longer be tolerated.
Equally concerning is the misuse of police authority in civil disputes, particularly in matters of land ownership. The IGP has reminded officers that the police have no jurisdiction over purely civil matters unless there is an underlying criminal element, and even in such cases, investigations must be overseen by the State Commissioners of Police, who will be held accountable for the process and outcome.
The filing of frivolous or malicious petitions aimed at harassment or intimidation is another issue the IGP has vowed to address. Moving forward, all petitions submitted to the police must now include a declaration confirming their authenticity and genuineness, and stating that the complaint has not been submitted to any other law enforcement agency or, if it has, that it has been withdrawn before involving the police. Petitioners found to have filed frivolous petitions will be made to face the appropriate sanctions for giving false information to the Police.
As part of his commitment to professionalism, the IGP reassures Nigerians of the Force’s dedication to upholding transparency and accountability. He calls on citizens to trust the police to deliver justice and to report any unethical practices through appropriate channels. Any officer or individual found misusing the name or authority of the IGP will face severe consequences, including prosecution where necessary.
ACP OLUMUYIWA ADEJOBI, mnipr, mipra, fCAI,
FORCE
