The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Mr Usman Baba Alkali, has ordered the immediate designation of all Assistant Commissioners of Police (ACPs) in charge of Criminal Investigations Departments as National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) Liaison Officers.
The Force Public Relations Officer (FPRO), CSP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, said this in a statement on Wednesday, in Abuja.
Adejobi said the IGP spoke during a courtesy visit by members of the Governing Council of NHRC led by its Chairperson, Dr. Salamatu Suleiman.
Alkali said the designation of the ACPs across Zonal and State Commands as NHRC Liaison Officers was to ensure compliance with the provisions of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act/Laws (ACJA/ACJL).
He said the order was to ensure compliance with the provisions of the Act during investigations, interrogations and gathering of evidence.
Alkali said it was also to ensure the resuscitation of Human Rights Desks in Police Commands nationwide.
He urged the NHRC to instruct its officials in the various states, to constantly work hand-in-hand with the Police Liaison Officers for seamless collaboration and laudable results.
The IGP pledged the commitment of his administration to achieve improved human rights driven policing in line with his policing agenda.
He expressed willingness to cement the already established collaboration with the NHRC to fast track reforms that would enhance public trust and confidence in the Nigeria Police.
Earlier, the Chairperson of the NHRC said the Nigeria Police Force is a key partner in the actualisation of NHRC mandates of promoting, protecting and enforcing human rights.
