Nigeria Police Chief Under Fire for Detaining Minors, Summons Top Police Brass

The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has come under intense scrutiny for the alleged mistreatment and detention of minors held since August in connection with #EndBadGovernance protests. In response, Egbetokun has summoned senior officers, including all Deputy Commissioners of Police in the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) and Heads of Investigation Units, to address concerns over the poor welfare conditions and procedural handling of these detainees.

Reports indicate that the detained minors, rejected by Kuje Prison due to inadequate facilities, were later transferred to an adult detention facility at the Intelligence Response Team (IRT) unit in Apo, Abuja. According to SaharaReporters, the children—24 in total—were granted bail on strict conditions by Justice Obiora Egwuatu, though about 20 have since been hospitalized due to malnourishment.

On Monday, President Bola Tinubu ordered the immediate release of the detained minors after mounting national and international backlash. The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, conveyed this directive during a press briefing at the Aso Rock Villa in Abuja. Meanwhile, Vice President Kashim Shettima is reportedly preparing to oversee a formal handover ceremony, where custody of the minors will be transferred to state governors from northern regions.

In a statement issued by Nigeria Police Force spokesperson, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the police acknowledged the ongoing investigation into the welfare concerns and affirmed the force’s commitment to addressing any misconduct. Adejobi added that the IGP, who received the investigative report while attending the Interpol General Assembly in Glasgow, pledged a full review of the findings and vowed to implement necessary reforms.

To reinforce professional standards, particularly in cases involving minors, the IGP has scheduled a conference and workshop on November 7, 2024, at the Police Resource Center in Jabi. This gathering will focus on enhancing child-friendly investigation practices and care protocols within police operations.

The Nigeria Police Force reiterated its dedication to upholding legal standards, promoting fairness, and ensuring accountability, especially in cases involving vulnerable groups.