The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has expressed grave concerns over the unethical practice of transferring ongoing cases without authorization and the misuse of public office by certain officers and individuals within the Nigeria Police Force.

In a statement released on Tuesday by the Force Public Relations Officer (FPRO), Muyiwa Adejobi, the IGP made it clear that such practices, which undermine investigations and weaken public trust in the Force, will no longer be tolerated.

Reaffirming his commitment to ensuring integrity in police operations, the IGP emphasized that transparency, professionalism, and accountability must remain the guiding principles of policing in Nigeria. To uphold these standards, he has issued strict directives to all supervising officers and personnel, particularly those in investigative units, mandating them to handle cases with the highest level of diligence and integrity.

Adejobi, speaking on behalf of the IGP, stated:

"The IGP has reiterated that police investigations must be conducted ethically, fairly, and within the confines of the law. Officers who engage in unauthorized case transfers or abuse their office for personal gain will face strict disciplinary action. This practice not only disrupts investigations but also imposes unnecessary burdens on the public and wastes resources."

One of the key issues addressed in the statement was the unauthorized transfer of cases still under investigation between different police formations. The IGP described this practice as unacceptable, as it leads to undue delays and unnecessary complications in the pursuit of justice.

Adejobi elaborated on this point, stating:

"The recurring practice of transferring cases between formations without proper authorization must stop immediately. All cases should be investigated within the jurisdiction where the alleged offence occurred, except in special circumstances that require express approval from the IGP's office. Any officer found violating this directive will be subjected to disciplinary measures."

The statement also addressed concerns regarding the misuse of police authority in civil matters, particularly in disputes over land ownership and related issues. The IGP reminded officers that the police are not to interfere in purely civil cases unless there is a clear criminal element involved.

"Police officers must not meddle in civil matters that do not fall within their jurisdiction. Where there is a criminal component in such disputes, investigations must be supervised by the State Commissioners of Police, who will be held accountable for the process and outcome," Adejobi noted.

The IGP also vowed to curb the misuse of petitions, particularly those aimed at harassing or intimidating individuals. Moving forward, all petitions submitted to the police must include a formal declaration of authenticity and genuineness, confirming that the same complaint has not been submitted to any other law enforcement agency. If a petition has been filed elsewhere, it must be withdrawn before involving the police.

"The filing of frivolous or malicious petitions to harass individuals is a serious issue that must be addressed. Any petitioner found guilty of providing false information or misusing the complaint process will face legal consequences," Adejobi warned.

To enhance efficiency, the IGP urged members of the public to submit complaints and petitions to the appropriate police commands, divisions, or units, rather than directly to his office. Exceptions will only be made for cases requiring special review or intervention.

"Members of the public should direct their complaints to the proper police units to ensure timely and effective resolution. The IGP’s office should only be approached in cases where appeals or special intervention are required. Additionally, citizens must refrain from framing civil disputes as criminal cases to manipulate police intervention," Adejobi cautioned.

Reaffirming his commitment to professionalism and justice, the IGP assured Nigerians that the Force remains dedicated to upholding the highest standards of transparency and accountability. He called on the public to trust the police to deliver justice and to report any unethical practices through the appropriate channels.

"The Nigeria Police Force remains committed to enforcing the law with integrity and fairness. Any officer or individual found misusing the name or authority of the IGP for personal gain will face severe consequences, including prosecution where necessary," the statement concluded.

With these directives, the IGP aims to restore public confidence in the Force and ensure that police operations align with ethical and legal standards.