Lagos CP threatens to dissolve task force over rights violations

The Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, Mr Olohundare Jimoh, has warned that he will not hesitate to dissolve the state task force if any of its personnel is found guilty of violating human rights.

Jimoh issued the warning on Saturday while briefing journalists at the command’s headquarters in Ikeja.

Speaking in response to a viral video involving the arrest of a traffic offender, the police chief defended the conduct of officers, insisting that there was no evidence of abuse or dehumanisation in the incident.

He said that the individual arrested for driving against traffic was treated in line with the law and due process.

Jimoh explained that the suspect was promptly taken before a mobile court, where the charges were read and bail was granted.

However, the individual was later remanded after failing to meet the bail conditions.

According to him, the task force is legally empowered to enforce environmental and sanitation laws across Lagos State, noting that their activities are essential to maintaining order in a densely populated city.

The commissioner said that he had already engaged task force personnel in retraining sessions focused on respecting human rights and maintaining professionalism in the course of duty.

“I will not hesitate to dissolve the task force and bring in a new set of personnel if there is clear evidence of human rights violations, as no officer is indispensable,” he said.

He also acknowledged the role of social media and the media in bringing such incidents to public attention, describing it as part of the responsibility of citizens to hold institutions accountable.

However, he cautioned against spreading misinformation that could undermine public trust.

Calling on residents to remain law-abiding, the police boss urged members of the public to report any misconduct to the police, assuring that all complaints would be thoroughly investigated.

He said that policing in Lagos required a balance between enforcing the law and respecting the dignity of citizens.

“Lagos has a population estimated between 20 and 25 million people, making strict adherence to laws essential to prevent disorder and chaos,” he said.

The police boss reaffirmed his commitment to transparent policing and maintaining discipline within the force, while also encouraging continued dialogue between the police and the public. (NAN)

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