The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, expressed concerns on Tuesday over the unethical practice of transferring ongoing cases between formations without approval.
The IGP said such actions, which could compromise investigations and damage public trust in the force, will no longer be accepted.
The Inspector General of Police further warned that any officer caught misusing their position or transferring case files arbitrarily would face severe disciplinary action.
Additionally, the Inspector-General promised to address the problem of pointless petitions that are used to harass or threaten people including concerns regarding the abuse of police power in civil issues, especially those involving land ownership.
Except for situations that call for review or special involvement, the IGP encouraged the public to submit their petitions to the relevant police commands, divisions, or units rather than his office in order to guarantee a more effective complaint procedure.
A statement by the Force Public Relations Officer, Muyiwa Adejobi, reads: “The IGP has emphasised that transparency, professionalism, and accountability must remain the guiding principles of policing. In line with this, he has directed all supervising officers and personnel, particularly those in investigative units, to handle cases with diligence and integrity.
“The recurring practice of transferring cases still under investigation between formations without authorisation 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 offences occurred unless expressly approved by his office.
“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.
“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stating that the complaint has not been submitted to any other law enforcement agency or, if it has, that it has been withdrawn before involving the police.
“Petitioners found to have filed frivolous petitions will be made to face the appropriate sanctions for giving false information to 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. He also stressed the importance of avoiding framing civil disputes as criminal matters to manipulate police intervention.”
Egbetokun reassured Nigerians of the NPF’s commitment to accountability and openness while restating his commitment to professionalism.
“As part of his commitment to professionalism, the IGP reassures Nigerians of the Force’s dedication to upholding transparency and accountability.
“He calls on citizens to trust the police to deliver justice and to report any unethical practices through appropriate channels. Any officer or individual found misusing the name or authority of the IGP will face severe consequences, including prosecution where necessary,” the IGP said.