IGP Disu Meets Civil Society Leaders, Pledges Stronger Police Accountability and Human Rights Compliance
The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, has reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening accountability and human rights compliance within the Nigeria Police Force following a high-level engagement with civil society organisations (CSOs) at the Force Headquarters in Abuja.
The IGP received a delegation of prominent civil society leaders led by renowned human rights lawyer, Femi Falana (SAN). The delegation included representatives from key legal, governance, and advocacy institutions such as the National Association of Democratic Lawyers (NADL), African Law Foundation (AFRILAW), Amnesty International, Human Rights Watch, Yiaga Africa, CISLAC/Transparency International Nigeria, Partners West Africa Nigeria (PWAN), and the Centre for Leadership Strategy and Development (Centre LSD).
In his remarks, Falana congratulated the IGP on his appointment and commended his articulated vision of people-centered policing anchored on the protection of human rights. He urged the police leadership to ensure strict adherence to the provisions of the Nigeria Police Act 2020, particularly those relating to suspects’ rights, including family notification upon arrest, access to legal representation, and the prohibition of arrests over civil disputes.
Falana also called for the institutionalization of stronger accountability mechanisms to guarantee that officers uphold constitutional rights and are held responsible in cases of misconduct.
Responding, IGP Disu expressed appreciation for the continued engagement of civil society, describing it as critical to building public trust and improving policing outcomes. He reiterated that effective policing must not only address major crimes but also respond to the everyday concerns of citizens.
The police chief disclosed ongoing reform measures within the Force, including the review of training manuals, improved welfare for officers, and reinforced directives prohibiting interference in civil matters. He also pledged to enhance the operations of the Complaint Response Unit and Monitoring Unit to ensure transparency and prompt handling of public complaints.
The IGP expressed optimism about achieving a more accountable and professional police force, reaffirming that the Nigeria Police Force remains committed to upholding transparency, accountability, and the protection of human rights in all its operations.
The statement was issued by the Force Public Relations Officer, Anthony Okon Placid, at the Force Headquarters, Abuja, on April 9, 2026.
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