By Usman Aliyu
The Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of Zone 5, Salman-Dogo, has warned police officers in the zone against human rights violations, extortion and unlawful detention.
Salman-Dogo also declared zero tolerance for misconduct within the force.
He gave the warning on Thursday in Benin, during a seminar and interactive session on “Human Rights Violations and Other Allied Infractions”.
The event was organised by the Nigeria Police Force Zone 5 Headquarters in collaboration with the Police Service Commission (PSC).
The AIG said respect for human rights remained a core principle of modern policing and was essential to rebuilding public trust in law enforcement.
“This seminar is therefore organised to continually remind officers of the consequences of human rights abuses, unprofessional conduct, and unlawful and prolonged detention.
“It is to also remind officers of the consequences of extortion, harassment and other misconduct capable of bringing the image of the force into disrepute,” he said.
Salman-Dogo stressed that the Nigeria police under the leadership of the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, remained committed to lawful and accountable policing.
He charged officers to remain civil, disciplined and people-oriented while carrying out their duties.
The police chief reiterated that officers found culpable of abuse of office or misconduct would face disciplinary action in line with existing laws and regulations.
He also urged members of the public to support the police with credible information and constructive partnerships to enhance security and public safety.
Mr Olayinka Balogun, consultant to the PSC on community policing and human rights, delivered l lectures on “Ethical Policing”, “Citizens’ Rights”, “Disciplinary Procedures”, as well as “Accountability”.
Balogun, a retired Commissioner of Police, cautioned officers against interference in civil matters and emphasised the need for professionalism in handling public complaints.
The session featured discussions on police-community relations, justice, fairness and the rule of law, with participants sharing practical experiences and asking questions on policing challenges.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that dignitaries present at the event include the Edo Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, alongside senior officers from the zonal and state commands.
The event also brought together community policing stakeholders, Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC) members and senior officers from Delta commands.
NAN