The Inspector-General of Police, Mr Kayode Egbetokun, has announced that policemen in mufti (not wearing uniforms) are no longer eligible to bear arms.
Egbetokun, who issued the directive on Monday, in Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory, said, “No operative should be seen carrying assault arms (rifles) while dressed in civilian attire (mufti).”
The directive, which is part of a broader plan to avert civilian/police clashes, was accompanied by a stern warning to all officers on serious breaches of human rights, which the Force is meant to uphold.
The IGP, who spoke during a virtual meeting with strategic police managers, yesterday, frowned at such acts, having received various complaints regarding human rights violations through the Force’s complaint channels.
A statement by Force Public Relations Officer, Mr Muyiwa Adejobi, said the meeting was in a bid to reinforce operational integrity and ensure effective management within the Nigeria Police Force.
He said: “The IGP states that any conduct violating human rights will not be tolerated and will be met with severe consequences.
“The IGP also warned all tactical squads against the misuse of power and improper dressing, emphasising the importance of operating in approved uniforms. No operative should be seen carrying assault arms (rifles) while dressed in civilian attire (mufti).
“All tactical squads are to ensure compliance with the standard operating procedure, while properly dressed in the assigned uniform for the particular squad.
“The IGP further emphasised the indiscriminate transfer of cases without the written approval of the IGP. This conduct is highly prohibited and would no longer be tolerated, as such exposes the parties to unnecessary burdens and delayed justice in their cases.
“The IGP concluded by directing that all ranks must work collaboratively to prevent any irresponsible acts that can tarnish the reputation of the Force,” the statement added.
