The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, has ordered a comprehensive investigation into police operations in the Southeast region following allegations of human rights violations documented by Amnesty International.
According to a statement from Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the directive comes in response to a recently published 128-page report by Amnesty International titled "A Decade of Impunity: Attacks and Unlawful Killings in South-East Nigeria."
The report allegedly details patterns of extrajudicial killings and human rights abuses by the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies operating in the region.
In line with the IGP's commitment to transparency, accountability, and operational professionalism, relevant departments and affected field formations have been instructed to conduct a meticulous line-by-line assessment of the report's allegations.
"The process will involve cross-referencing the allegations with internal operational records, field intelligence, and situation reports from police commands and tactical units within the Southeast region," Adejobi explained.
While affirming the Force's commitment to upholding citizens' fundamental rights, the spokesperson noted that previous Amnesty International reports have sometimes contained "factual inaccuracies and sweeping generalizations." He emphasized that the current review would be guided by facts, operational evidence, and institutional integrity.
Upon completion of the review, the Force will issue a detailed, evidence-based response addressing specific issues raised in the report. This approach reflects the Force's commitment to constructive criticism and maintaining public trust through verified information and contextual clarity.
The IGP reaffirmed the Force's dedication to lawful, accountable, and rights-based policing, emphasizing ongoing efforts to enhance internal accountability mechanisms, improve human rights training, and deepen institutional reforms in line with global best practices.
Adejobi assured that the Nigeria Police Force remains open to genuine engagement with civil society organizations, human rights institutions, international partners, and the National Human Rights Commission. The IGP encouraged all stakeholders to approach such matters with objectivity, accuracy, and a balanced understanding of the complex security challenges facing the country.
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