The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has urged Divisional Police Officers (DPOs) across Nigeria's states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to embrace rights-based and intelligence-driven policing as a means to enhance justice delivery and rebuild public confidence in law enforcement.
NHRC Executive Secretary Speaks at Town Hall
Tony Ojukwu, the Executive Secretary of the NHRC, made this call during a town hall meeting for FCT DPOs on “Rights-Based Policing and Oversight” held in Abuja. The event was organized by the NHRC in collaboration with Partners West Africa Nigeria (PWAN). Represented by the Commission’s Director of Human Resources Management, Mr. Ibe Obidigwe, Ojukwu reminded participants of the official handover of the Police Regulations 2025 on April 15, emphasizing that these new regulations are crucial for professional policing standards.
According to Ojukwu, the NHRC played a direct role in the development of these regulations, which go beyond administrative procedures and serve as a benchmark for professional conduct aligned with international best practices. “For you, the DPOs, these updated regulations provide the clarity and protection needed to perform your duties within the bounds of global standards,” he said.
He noted that the town hall was designed to bridge operational realities with statutory obligations and ensure that officers align policing methods with the rule of law. “As DPOs, you are the primary gatekeepers of justice. The station level is where the social contract is either strengthened or destroyed,” he stated.
Compliance with Key Laws
Ojukwu urged officers to fully comply with the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA) 2015, the Anti-Torture Act 2017, and the new Police Regulations. He noted that adherence to these laws would help transition the Nigeria Police Force from confession-driven investigations to intelligence-led policing. This transition, he added, would protect both citizens and police officers from legal liabilities while enhancing professionalism and accountability.
The NHRC boss further stressed that effective policing and human rights protection are inseparable, noting that public safety depends largely on public cooperation, which can only be earned through respect for human dignity. “By aligning our methods with the rule of law, we do not merely police a population; we serve a nation,” he added.
Support from Police Service Commission
Speaking at the event, the Chairman of the Police Service Commission (PSC), DIG Hashimu Argungu, represented by Mrs. Victoria Orakwue of the PSC legal department, commended the NHRC for the initiative. He reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to working with stakeholders to build a more accountable, people-oriented, and professional Nigeria Police Force. “It is our collective responsibility to ensure that policing in Nigeria reflects fairness, respect for human dignity, and service to the people,” he said.
Partners West Africa Nigeria Weighs In
Executive Director of Partners West Africa Nigeria, Mrs. Kemi Okenyodo, represented by Glory Terkosu, described the dialogue as timely, especially amid growing public concerns over accountability, procedural justice, and citizens’ rights. She said professionalism and respect for human rights remain critical to building public trust and improving security outcomes. “We are supporting citizen engagement and collaboration between state and non-state actors to advance democratic governance and the rule of law,” she said.
FCT Police Command's Commitment
Representing the FCT Commissioner of Police, CP Ahmed Sanusi, CSP Hiliary Unung stated that the engagement would help officers improve relationships with members of the public and enhance operational performance. He assured participants of the command’s commitment to embracing modern policing methods and respecting the fundamental rights of citizens. “The command will ensure compliance with human rights standards and will not hesitate to sanction officers who violate established rules,” he said.
CLEEN Foundation's Perspective
Executive Director of the CLEEN Foundation, Peter Maduoma, also stressed the need to strengthen trust between the police and the public, particularly as the country approaches another electoral season. The meeting attracted stakeholders in the rule of law sector, human rights experts, and DPOs from across the FCT.
