•Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun
The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has ordered a review of a report by Amnesty International alleging extrajudicial killings and human rights violations in the South-East.
The 128-page report, titled “A Decade of Impunity: Attacks and Unlawful Killings in South-East Nigeria,” accused the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies of committing abuses in the region, reports Saturday PUNCH.
In a statement on Saturday, the Force Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, said the IG directed relevant departments and field formations to conduct a line-by-line assessment of the report.
He added that the review would compare the allegations with operational records, field intelligence, and reports from commands and tactical units in the South-East.
“In line with his unwavering commitment to transparency, accountability, and operational professionalism, the IG has directed relevant departments and affected field formations to undertake a meticulous line-by-line assessment of the report.
“This process will involve cross-referencing the allegations with internal operational records, field intelligence, and situation reports from police commands and tactical units within the South-East region,” the statement partly read.
Adejobi noted that while the police force is committed to protecting the rights of citizens, some past reports by Amnesty International contained inaccuracies and generalisations.
“It is equally necessary to place on record that previous reports by Amnesty International have, on occasion, included factual inaccuracies and sweeping generalisations.
“The current review will therefore be guided by facts, operational evidence, and a dedication to institutional integrity,” he said.
He said the Force would issue a detailed response at the conclusion of the review, adding that the police remained committed to accountability, human rights training, and reforms.
“At the conclusion of the review, the Force will issue a detailed and evidence-based response, addressing the specific issues raised in the report.
“This engagement will reflect the force’s principled approach to constructive criticism and its responsibility to protect public trust through verified information and contextual clarity.
”The Inspector-General of Police reaffirms the unwavering commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to lawful, accountable, and rights-based policing. The Force continues to enhance its internal accountability mechanisms, improve training in human rights standards, and deepen institutional reforms in line with global best practices,” he said.
Adejobi added that the police is open to engaging civil society groups, human rights bodies, international partners, and the National Human Rights Commission on the matter.
