The inspector general of police, Kayode Egbetokun, has appealed to Nigerians to always lodge complaints about the unprofessional conduct of police officers to the Police Complaints Response Unit rather than exposing them on social media.
Mr Egbetokun disclosed this on Monday at the PPROs/Police Communication Experts’ Conference in Asaba in Delta.
He said, “We appeal to the public not to resort to social media when reporting the conduct of police officers but rather use the Police Complaints Response Unit.”
According to the police boss, reporting cases on social media to address grievances most of the time leads to misinformation which undermines the integrity of the force.
While recognising that the platforms help Nigerians express their views, he worried that information that is not verified, when disseminated, could be wrongly perceived.
Mr Egbetokun, however, stated that the Police Complaints Response Unit has a better structured and more accountable process for addressing grievances, as he emphasised the importance of promoting transparency and accountability within the force.
By encouraging Nigerians to use the Police Complaints Response Unit, Mr. Egbetokun is advocating for a more streamlined and effective way to address complaints and hold police officers accountable for their actions. This approach not only ensures that grievances are properly investigated and resolved, but also helps to maintain the integrity and professionalism of the police force.
In light of the increasing use of social media as a platform for reporting incidents of police misconduct, Mr. Egbetokun’s plea serves as a reminder that while these platforms can be valuable tools for public expression, they may not always provide the most accurate or reliable information. By directing complaints to the appropriate channels, such as the Police Complaints Response Unit, individuals can help to ensure that their concerns are addressed in a fair and transparent manner.
As the Inspector General of Police, Mr. Egbetokun’s message underscores the importance of fostering a culture of accountability and transparency within law enforcement agencies. By prioritizing the proper channels for reporting misconduct and working towards effective solutions, the police force can continue to build trust and credibility with the public.
Ultimately, Mr. Egbetokun’s appeal serves as a call to action for all Nigerians to work together in promoting a system of accountability and addressing issues of police misconduct in a responsible and constructive manner. Through collaboration and communication, we can strive towards a safer and more just society for all.
