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| Nigeria Police officers standing in formation at a parade. |
Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun makes a bold move bolstering professionalism within the Nigeria Police Force by laying down law officers no longer permitted to carry rifles in civilian attire commonly referred to as mufti. This directive sends a clear message that the force is committed to upholding human rights and maintaining public trust somehow.
The crux of this new policy dictates officers on routine patrols or stop-and-search duties wear full uniforms with name tags for heightened accountability and citizen security. Easily identifiable officers foster a sense of security among citizens and promote trust. Plainclothes officers wielding rifles during operations will soon be a thing of the past.
Force Public Relations Officer, Muyiwa Adejobi, emphasized this point, stating that officers in mufti are typically assigned to surveillance or undercover tasks and should not be seen carrying long-range firearms. He further noted that the tendency for misconduct increases when officers know their identities are concealed. By ensuring that officers are in uniform during public engagements, the force aims to standardize operations and reduce instances of unprofessional behaviour.
This directive comes on the heels of numerous reports and public outcry over police misconduct. In August 2024, protests against soaring living costs saw violent confrontations between security personnel and citizens reportedly resulting in numerous fatalities. Incidents like these highlight the need for swift reforms within the police force to curb abuses and restore faith somehow.
The Nigeria Police Force historically struggled with deeply entrenched corruption and blatant human rights abuses under successive regimes. Systemic corruption permeates force operations somehow. Human Rights Watch reported in 2010 that officers often extorted money from the public and committed numerous human rights violations, apparently.
By implementing this policy, IGP aims to bridge deep-seated distrust between police and the public by boosting the visibility of uniformed officers clearly identified by name, which supposedly deters potential misconduct and reassures citizens of the force's commitment somehow.
While the directive sets the stage for improved police conduct, its success hinges on active community involvement. Citizens are encouraged to report any deviations from this policy, ensuring that accountability mechanisms are robust and effective. This collaborative approach seeks to create a safer environment where both the police and the public work hand in hand.
This initiative signifies a critical juncture in efforts to reform Nigeria's policing system, prioritizing transparency, accountability, and respect for human rights somehow. The Nigeria Police Force takes concrete steps towards rebuilding its reputation and strengthening relationships with the communities it serves.