Human Rights Abuse: Lagos CP Threatens To Disband Task Force Over Police Misconduct

Moshood Jimoh has warned that the Lagos State Task Force may be dissolved if officers attached to the agency are found culpable of human rights violations, extortion, or other forms of misconduct.

The Lagos police boss gave the warning during a press briefing in Ikeja, stressing that the command would no longer tolerate unprofessional conduct from officers deployed to the task force.

His warning follows growing allegations of extortion and abuse involving some operatives of the task force, with a recent viral video showing officers arresting lawyers in connection with a land dispute — an incident that sparked public outrage and renewed concerns over police involvement in civil matters.

Jimoh said any officer accused of torture, extortion, or abuse would be investigated, adding that members of the public must provide verifiable evidence to aid prompt action.

According to him, the police command has already met with task force officials and issued a stern warning against any form of rights violation.

“We are not going to defend any police officer who engages in wrongdoing. If complaints are verified after investigation, I will not hesitate to dissolve the entire task force and bring in a new set of officers,” he said.

The commissioner recalled that five officers had already been charged to court over an incident in Owode-Onirin, noting that disciplinary measures would continue against erring personnel.

He added that newly deployed officers to the task force are undergoing background checks, retraining, and reorientation to improve professionalism.

Jimoh further disclosed that the command plans to partner with human rights organisations and civil society groups to strengthen officers’ understanding of human rights and public conduct.

He assured Lagos residents that the police remain open to engagement aimed at identifying operational lapses and improving service delivery.