By our Reporter
IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu,
Inspector-General of Police, has pledged to strengthen accountability mechanisms within the Nigeria Police Force following a high-level engagement with civil society organisations.
Disu made the commitment on April 9, 2026, while receiving a delegation of civil society groups led by prominent human rights lawyer, Femi Falana, at the Force Headquarters in Abuja.
The delegation included representatives from key organisations across the legal, governance, and human rights sectors, such as the National Association of Democratic Lawyers, African Law Foundation, Amnesty International, Human Rights Watch, Yiaga Africa, Transparency International Nigeria, Partners West Africa Nigeria, and the African Centre for Leadership Strategy and Development.
Speaking on behalf of the delegation, Falana congratulated the IGP on his appointment and commended his vision of policing anchored on the protection of human rights. He called for strict adherence to the Nigeria Police Act 2020, particularly provisions relating to suspects’ rights, including family notification upon arrest, access to legal representation, and the prohibition of arrests over civil matters.
Falana further urged the police leadership to strengthen accountability systems to ensure officers respect constitutional rights and are held responsible for misconduct.
In his response, Disu expressed appreciation for the continued engagement of civil society, reaffirming his commitment to people-centred policing. He noted that effective policing must address not only major crimes but also the everyday concerns of citizens.
The IGP outlined ongoing reform efforts within the Force, including the review of training manuals, improved welfare for officers, and strict directives against interference in civil disputes.
He also pledged to enhance transparency and accountability by strengthening key oversight structures such as the Complaint Response Unit and the Monitoring Unit.
Disu expressed confidence that meaningful policing reforms are achievable, reiterating the Force’s commitment to upholding accountability, transparency, and the protection of human rights in all its operations.
