IG to police lawyers: Defend Force with integrity

The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, on Tuesday urged police officers recently called to the Nigerian Bar to deploy their legal expertise in defending the Nigeria Police Force with professionalism, courage and integrity.

A statement issued on Tuesday in Abuja by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, said the IGP gave the charge while receiving the officers at the Force Headquarters.

Among those honoured was Deputy Superintendent of Police, Idachaba Laraba, who bagged a First Class from the Nigerian Law School. Egbetokun specially recognised her feat, describing it as a source of pride to the Force.

The police chief noted that their call to the Bar was not just a personal milestone but also a valuable addition to the institution. He reminded them that police powers must always be exercised within the confines of the law, charging them to serve as “custodians of legal knowledge” within the Force.

“You are not just returning as police officers, but as legal professionals. Your knowledge must be used to strengthen the Force and to better serve Nigerians,” he said.

The officers expressed appreciation to the IGP for supporting their legal education and pledged to uphold the highest standards of professionalism in their dual roles.

The statement also recalled that the Force recently upgraded its Legal Section to a full Directorate headed by an Assistant Inspector-General of Police, as part of reforms aimed at enhancing legal oversight and institutional capacity.