IGP vows strict action against misuse of office, case transfers

Abdullateef Fowewe

The Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun has condemned the unethical practices of transferring ongoing cases and misuse of office by certain officers and individuals.

The IGP in in a statement by the Force Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi on Tuesday, emphasised that cases should be handled and investigated within the jurisdiction of alleged offences unless when approved by his office.

Egbetokun further urged the general public to ensure that their petitions are addressed to the appropriate Police commands or units and must ensure that all petitions are genuine and not been submitted to any other law enforcement agency.

It reads, “The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, has raised serious concerns about the unwarranted and unethical practice of transferring ongoing cases and misusing of public office by certain officers and individuals. He stressed that these practices which undermine investigations and diminish public confidence in the Force, will no longer be tolerated.

“The IGP has emphasised that transparency, professionalism and accountability must remain the guiding principles of policing. In line with this, he has directed all supervising officers and personnel, particularly those in investigative units, to handle cases with diligence and integrity. He further warned that any officer found engaging in indiscriminate transfers of case files or misusing their office will face strict disciplinary actions.

“The recurring practice of transferring cases still under investigation between formations without authorization has been deemed unacceptable. Such actions create unnecessary delays, impose undue burdens on parties involved, and waste resources. The IGP has categorically stated that cases should be investigated within the jurisdiction where alleged offenses occurred unless expressly approved by his office.

“Equally concerning is the misuse of police authority in civil disputes, particularly in matters of land ownership. The IGP has reminded officers that the police have no jurisdiction over purely civil matters unless there is an underlying criminal element, and even in such cases, investigations must be overseen by the State Commissioners of Police, who will be held accountable for the process and outcome.

“The filing of frivolous or malicious petitions aimed at harassment or intimidation is another issue the IGP has vowed to address. Moving forward, all petitions submitted to the police must now include a  declaration confirming their authenticity and genuineness, and stating that the complaint has not been submitted to any other law enforcement agency or, if it has, that it has been withdrawn before involving the police. Petitioners found to have filed frivolous petitions will be made to face the appropriate sanctions for giving false information to the Police.

“The IGP has urged members of the public to submit complaints and petitions directly to the appropriate Police Commands, Divisions, or Units rather than to the IGP’s office, except in cases requiring review, appeal, or special intervention. He also stressed the importance of avoiding framing civil disputes as criminal matters to manipulate police intervention.”