The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, has reaffirmed the ban on the public parade of criminal suspects, emphasizing the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to upholding fundamental human rights.
In a statement issued on March 11, 2025, by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the IGP reiterated that this directive aligns with international best practices and aims to ensure that the rights and dignity of all individuals—including those accused of crimes—are protected throughout the judicial process.
The directive, which has been communicated to all commands and zones, is part of ongoing police modernization efforts and reinforces the force’s commitment to operating within the law. The IGP urged law enforcement officers to respect due process and emphasized that criminal suspects should not be paraded publicly before formal charges are filed in court.
He also called for the cooperation of the public and the media in adhering to this policy, stressing the importance of responsible journalism in maintaining public trust and ensuring a fair justice system.
The Nigeria Police Force reassured citizens of its dedication to promoting human rights and professionalism in policing while urging compliance with ethical standards in law enforcement and media reporting.