By: Douglas Ogbankwa Esq @douglasogbankwa@gmail.com
The Nigerian Police Force, under the leadership of the immediate past IGP, gave a directive that Higher Police Formations can no longer take over investigations except with the express permission of the IGP. This was, however, cosmetic, as the directive was mostly observed in breach.
However, under the command of the current Inspector General of Police, his directive is currently being observed strictly in the AOR of my practice as a lawyer .
This development is commendable as it has strengthened the State Commands, their Area Commands and Divisions. It has also stopped the practice of alleged culprits using higher Commands to take over case files to kill good cases, which in turn encourages crime.
It has also reduced the activities of case mongers. These are civilians who strategically establish relationships with Heads of Police Formations and use that influence to transfer matters indiscriminately.
I must commend the Inspector General of Police -IGP Kayode Egbetokun MNI, for his leadership in ensuring that this policy is sustained. We must, however, include it in an amendment to the Police Act, 2020 (As Amended).
There are, however, concerns that there may be instances where those at the Zones and Commands will abuse their powers, knowing there is not likely to be a transfer of cases. The Assistant Inspectors General of Police and the Commissioners of Police must widen their oversight over the activities of those involved in investigations, especially the tactical Commanders, who work independently in the investigation of matters outside the purview of the Deputy Commissioner of Police Investigations.
Whenever there is a credible complaint against any team or unit, there should be swift action to address the same to serve as a watchdog for investigation activities at that level.
