Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun has ordered a probe into claims of mistreatment involving minors detained during the #EndBadGovernance protests.
According to PUNCH Online, 76 suspects, mostly minors appearing undernourished, were presented in court on Friday in connection to the protests. Six of the minors reportedly fainted and required immediate medical attention.
Responding to the incident on Saturday, the IG suggested that the minors’ fainting was staged to draw negative publicity. He stated that medical aid was quickly provided, affirming the police’s dedication to the well-being of those in custody.
Amid public outcry over the event, President Bola Tinubu instructed on Monday that charges against the minors be dropped.
In a statement on Monday night, Force Spokesperson Muyiwa Adejobi mentioned that the IG had ordered a review of the minors’ welfare during their time in detention.
Adejobi further stated that once the investigation report is received, the IG pledged to take action on any procedural shortcomings discovered.
He said, “Following the recent remand and subsequent arraignment of some young individuals on Friday, 1st November, the Inspector-General of Police, while in Algiers, Algeria, for the African Union Mechanism for Police Cooperation committee meeting, directed an investigation into the conditions surrounding the care and welfare of these young persons in police detention facilities.
“Upon receiving the investigative report today in Glasgow, where the IGP is currently participating in the Interpol General Assembly, the IGP vowed to thoroughly examine it and take necessary actions to address any procedural lapses or concerns.”
Adejobi mentioned that the Inspector General had called for a meeting with heads of investigation units to discuss child-sensitive approaches to investigations.
“To further ensure professionalism in investigations with an emphasis on child-friendly investigation and care, the IGP has summoned all Deputy Commissioners of Criminal Investigation Department (DCs CID) and Heads of Investigation Units to a conference and workshop on 7th November 2024, at the Police Resource Centre, Jabi,” he said.
“The Nigeria Police Force reaffirms its commitment to upholding legal frameworks, ensuring fairness, and accountability, especially for vulnerable groups.”
