The Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID) Annex, Lagos, Simeon Akpanudom, has warned police officers against unlawful arrests, unnecessary detention of suspects and the criminalisation of civil disputes, urging them to uphold professionalism and respect for human rights in the discharge of their duties.
Akpanudom also cautioned officers against corruption, extortion, bribery and other unethical practices capable of undermining public confidence in the Nigeria Police Force, stressing that misconduct would not be tolerated.
The AIG gave the directives on Monday, during the FCID Annex’s Lecture Parade held at Alagbon Close, Ikoyi, Lagos, where he addressed officers and men of the formation.
He reminded detectives that their responsibility is to investigate crimes and establish facts, not to determine guilt or innocence, urging them to ensure that all investigations are intelligence-led, evidence-based and conducted in accordance with the law.
Akpanudom specifically directed officers to avoid the indiscriminate transfer of case files, unlawful arrests, prolonged detention of suspects and the use of criminal processes to resolve purely civil matters.
He stressed the need to uphold the fundamental rights of every individual while carrying out investigations, in line with the vision of the Inspector-General of Police to build a professional, accountable and people-oriented police force.
The AIG also directed supervisory officers to prioritise the welfare of personnel, particularly officers who are ill or off duty, describing staff welfare as essential to improved productivity and efficient service delivery.
He urged officers to maintain professionalism and courtesy in their interactions with members of the public, adhere strictly to the approved Nigeria Police Force dress code and conduct themselves in a manner that projects a positive image of the Force.
Akpanudom further called for greater teamwork in investigations, directing sectional heads to strengthen supervision of cases under their watch and improve coordination through designated team leaders.
He also encouraged officers to embrace continuous training and professional development, particularly in emerging areas such as cybercrime investigation and digital policing.
While commending officers for their dedication and commitment to duty, the AIG urged them to remain disciplined, accountable and committed to excellence, noting that professionalism and integrity remain critical to effective justice delivery and the continued growth of the Nigeria Police Force.