BY: FAIZA JIBRIN, MARCH 11, 2025/ 10:21PM
In a renewed commitment to upholding fundamental human rights, Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun has reiterated the ban on the public parade of criminal suspects.
This move aligns the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) with international best practices in law enforcement.
The directive, issued on Tuesday by ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, Force Public Relations Officer, reinforces the police force's duty to protect the dignity of all individuals, including those accused of crimes, until due legal processes are followed.
According to the IGP, the policy aims to eliminate premature exposure of suspects to public judgment, which often leads to stigmatization and potential miscarriage of justice. Human rights advocates and legal experts have long criticized the parading of suspects as a violation of the constitutional presumption of innocence and a threat to fair trial principles.
ACP Adejobi said the move aligns with international human rights standards prioritizing the protection of individuals at all stages of the judicial process.
He added that the Nigeria Police Force reaffirmed its commitment to professionalism and human rights-centered policing, urging officers to ensure compliance across all commands.
The IGP also called on the media to exercise responsible journalism by refraining from publishing images or videos of untried suspects, stressing the importance of ethical reporting in preserving the integrity of Nigeria's justice system.
This directive marks another step in ongoing police reforms aimed at improving public trust and ensuring justice is served without infringing on individual rights.