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 public office by certain officers and individuals. He stressed that these practices undermine investigations and diminish public confidence in the Force, and will no longer be tolerated.

Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, noted that the IGP has directed all supervising officers and personnel, particularly those in investigative units, to handle cases with diligence and integrity. Adejobi emphasized that any officer found engaging in indiscriminate transfers of case files or misusing their office will face strict disciplinary actions.

Adejobi stated that 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.

Adejobi also noted that 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stating that the complaint has not been submitted to any other law enforcement agency or, if it has, that it has been withdrawn before involving the police.

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. Adejoji stressed the importance of avoiding framing civil disputes as criminal matters to manipulate police intervention. As part of his commitment to professionalism, the IGP reassures Nigerians of the Force’s dedication to upholding transparency and accountability.