By Adewole Kehinde
In a nation where private influence too often attempts to bend public institutions, the latest directive by the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, deserves not only commendation but full public support.
His unequivocal statement that the Nigeria Police Force must remain neutral in all civil and private disputes is a much-needed reminder of the professional boundaries that safeguard the integrity of law enforcement.
The IGP could not have spoken more clearly:
“Let me reiterate without ambiguity, the Nigerian Police Force is not and will never become an enforcer for private interests.”
This is a powerful declaration, one that reinforces the core principle that the police exist to enforce criminal law, protect life and property, and preserve public order, not to serve as instruments for the powerful in settling personal scores.
A Necessary Warning to All Officers
It is no secret that over the years, some officers have allowed themselves to be dragged into matters that fall squarely outside the jurisdiction of the police. Particularly troubling is the recurring abuse around land disputes, a category of issues that, in law, remain purely civil claims and should be resolved through the courts.
Yet, we have witnessed instances where officers accompany private individuals to “recover land”, forcibly evict occupants, or disrupt ongoing possession, without any proven criminal element. The IGP has now drawn the line firmly:
“Officers have no business escorting parties for land recovery, disrupting legally existing occupations, or meddling in civil claims without a demonstrable criminal element.”
This is not just a warning; it is a policy stance that redefines professionalism within the Force.
Protecting the Image of the Police
When officers overstep into private matters, they not only violate procedure but also damage public trust. As the IGP rightly noted:
“Every such incident erodes the neutrality of the Force and opens us up to disrepute. The line must be clear, and any officer who crosses it will face consequences.”
This level of clarity is what Nigerians have been yearning for: leadership that is willing to confront internal lapses and impose discipline when necessary.
Why the IGP’s Position Matters
- It upholds the rule of law.
Civil matters, especially land disputes, must be adjudicated in court, where evidence, title documents, and legal arguments can be properly evaluated. - It shields officers from exploitation.
Too often, private individuals attempt to manipulate the police into becoming tools for intimidation. The IGP’s directive protects officers from being lured into misconduct. - It enhances public confidence.
When citizens know the police will not take sides in civil matters, they are more likely to trust the Force as an impartial institution. - It strengthens internal discipline.
A police force without boundaries becomes a danger to itself. Egbetokun’s stance reinforces professionalism and accountability.
The Way Forward
The IGP has spoken, but enforcement must follow. Commands and formations across the country must ensure that every officer understands the distinction between criminal and civil issues. Land cases, tenancy disputes, marital disagreements, inheritance conflicts — these are civil matters and must remain within the jurisdiction of the courts.
The Nigerian Police Force is not, and must never become, a private enforcement agency.
IGP Egbetokun’s clarity on this matter marks a turning point in policing culture. It is now the responsibility of every officer, and indeed every citizen, to respect this boundary so that the Force can focus on its true mandate: fighting crime, protecting citizens, and upholding the Constitution.
The IGP has drawn the line. For the sake of professionalism, justice, and the future of policing in Nigeria, that line must never again be crossed.
Adewole Kehinde is a public affairs analyst based in Abuja. Email: kennyadewole@gmail.com @kennyadewole 08166240846
