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The West African Youth Protection and Advocacy Network (WAYPAN) has congratulated the newly appointed Inspector General of Police (IGP), Tunji Disu, on his appointment to the position, saying the appointment is a timely opportunity to outline key priorities for safeguarding youth rights under the leadership of the new IGP.
The Regional Coordinator
Rafiu Adeniran Lawal, West African Youth Protection and Advocacy Network (WAYPAN), in a press release said this transition represents a critical moment to address long-standing concerns and reposition the Nigerian Police Force towards professionalism, accountability and respect for the rights of citizens, especially those of the youth.
He said reports from local and international human rights organizations consistently show that young Nigerians continue to face police harassment, unlawful arrest and detention, illicit profiling and physical assault. Of particular concern is the increasing use of the Cybercrime Act (2024) to prosecute young people on behalf of powerful individuals, including politicians, influencers and wealthy elites.
“While WAYPAN condemns the misuse of digital platforms for blackmail, defamation or fraud, it is important to note that many cases prosecuted by police under cybercrime laws often border on civil disputes rather than criminal offences.
Even more concerning are the procedural abuses that sometimes occur in the handling of such cases, including violations of suspects’ rights before formal judicial proceedings.
“Likewise, the excessive use of force in the handling of peaceful protests highlights the urgent need for comprehensive police reform.
“The recent alleged assault of human rights activists Hassan Taiwo Soweto and Paul Frank, during a peaceful protest against community demolitions in Lagos State, reflects a pattern of arrogance that must be addressed.
“The Nigerian Police Force must learn lessons from the #EndSARS protests, which were triggered by public outrage over police misconduct and brutality.
“In light of these concerns, we urge Tunji Disu to view his appointment as an opportunity to initiate meaningful reforms that will strengthen respect for human and civil rights within the police system. We call on the IGP to: review documented cases of rights violations involving citizens, particularly young people, and stop unfair or unnecessary prosecutions, strengthen accountability mechanisms within the armed forces, retrain officers on human rights standards and legal commitment procedures, especially in in relation to profiling and public events.
Others are; “Establish functional and accessible human rights desks in all police formations to promptly address complaints of misconduct, promote a youth-friendly policing approach that recognizes youth as partners in national development rather than potential criminals.
“WAYPAN remains committed to advocating for the protection of youth rights and stands ready to support the Nigerian Police Force in bringing about reforms that promote justice, accountability and public trust,” he said.
