The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, on Tuesday, expressed serious concerns over the unethical practice of transferring ongoing cases without authorisation and the misuse of public office by certain officers and individuals.
Police Public Relations Officer, Muyiwa Adejobi, in a statement on Tuesday, emphasised that such practices, which he said undermine investigations and erode public confidence in the Force, will no longer be tolerated.
He further warned that strict disciplinary actions await any officer found engaging in indiscriminate transfers of case files or abusing their office, as he used the opportunity to addressed concerns over the misuse of police authority in civil disputes, particularly in land ownership matters.
“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”, Adejobi stated.
“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,” Adejobi added.
“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,” Adejobi noted.
To ensure a more efficient complaint process, the IGP urged members of the public to direct their petitions to the appropriate police commands, divisions, or units rather than his office, except in cases requiring review or special intervention.
