The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, has directed Commissioners of Police across the country to immediately halt extortion, illegal checkpoints, harassment of citizens, and other forms of misconduct.
He emphasized that rebuilding public trust in the Nigeria Police Force is now a top operational priority.
The directive was conveyed through an official communication to members of the police management team, including CPs and operational commanders, according to The Nation.
In the firm instruction, the IGP admitted that many Nigerians harbor deep mistrust toward police officers, a situation he described as “painful” and unacceptable. He noted that citizens often fear encounters with police personnel as much as they fear criminals, warning that such perceptions must not persist under his leadership.
He explained that the order signals the start of a deliberate campaign to restore discipline within the Force and rebuild its credibility among the public.
As part of the directive, the routine extortion of motorists on highways was expressly banned, alongside the setting up of unauthorized checkpoints.
The IGP also prohibited the practice of detaining individuals and compelling them to withdraw money from Automated Teller Machines (ATMs).
Additionally, he condemned the deployment of officers for private assignments in homes and business premises, describing it as an abuse of office and a violation of presidential directives governing VIP protection.
Officers were also instructed to adhere strictly to dress codes, maintain proper grooming, and comply with uniform standards.
The police chief warned that any form of harassment against citizens would no longer be tolerated, stressing that the public remains the primary reason for the Force’s existence, not its adversary. At the same time, he assured officers of institutional support against intimidation or disrespect from civilians, adding that the integrity of the uniform must be upheld on both sides.
Holding senior officers accountable, the IGP stated that CPs would be directly responsible for any misconduct occurring within their commands. He directed them to demonstrate clear improvements in discipline within seven days or risk facing official queries and possible redeployment where failures persist.
He further stressed that lapses in supervision would no longer be overlooked at any level of command. To ensure strict compliance, new monitoring mechanisms have been introduced, including independent oversight of field operations and channels for citizens to report complaints directly to Force Headquarters.
A Citizens Commendation System is also to be introduced to reward officers who exhibit professionalism, with monthly recognitions based on nominations from the public across various commands.
Describing the move as a critical turning point, the IGP observed that Nigerians are no longer satisfied with assurances but demand tangible results. He instructed all commanders to brief their personnel within 72 hours and submit written confirmation of compliance, declaring that efforts to reform the Force have commenced and will continue until public confidence is fully restored.
