The Nigeria Police Force has taken a significant step forward by announcing the stoppage of the practice of torturing suspects during their arrest and detention. This announcement, made by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Muyiwa Adejobi, during an interview on Channels Television, marks a pivotal moment in the country’s law enforcement practices.
The decision to abandon the use of torture comes in the wake of the arrest of individuals suspected in the killing of a Divisional Police Officer in Rivers State. This incident likely served as a catalyst for the police force to reevaluate their methods and align them with international human rights standards.
Adejobi’s statement underscores the police force’s commitment to upholding the Anti-torture Act of 2017, which explicitly prohibits the use of torture in all circumstances. Instead of resorting to brutal interrogation tactics, the police now emphasize conducting professional interviews and interrogations to extract information from suspects.
While acknowledging that extracting information through these lawful means may take longer, Adejobi emphasizes that torture has no place in modern law enforcement practices. This shift towards more humane and legal methods reflects a progressive approach to policing in Nigeria, demonstrating a dedication to respecting the rights and dignity of all individuals, even those suspected of criminal activity.
