After asking officers to disregard human rights in the South East , the Inspector-General of Police, Alkali Baba has warned officers in the Kano command to respect human rights.
Different strokes for different regions
Recall that on the 19th of May while speaking on the sideline during an address to the Police Mobile Force and Special Tactical Squad of the Force in Enugu shortly after he launched Operation Restore Peace, the IGP directed policemen in the region not to adhere to the rules of engagement while dealing with Biafra secessionist groups, adding that his job was to protect them.
“Don’t mind the media shout; do the job I command you. If anyone accuses you of human rights violation, the report will come to my table and you know what I will do. So, take the battle to them wherever they are and kill them all. Don’t wait for an order.
“What another order are you waiting for when Mr. President had ordered you to shoot anybody carrying AK-47 rifle? Quote me, even a dead policeman can be tried and dismissed from the force and his family will not get his benefits.
“So, don’t seat and wait for them to come; take attack to them and don’t lose your arms to criminals,” the then acting IGP said
His order to his men has led to massive human rights violations, extrajudicial killings, abduction, torture and extortion in the South East, especially Imo and Abia States.
But while speaking to officers of the Kano state command on Wednesday, the police boss charged them to commit themselves to ensuring the protection of human rights while carrying out their duties.
Baba also encouraged the officers to have a change of attitude to work and ensure that they are on their best behaviour at all times.
“I know you have some challenges, but don’t allow the challenges to bring you down. There must be challenges. Challenges are welcome, but they are surmountable,” he said.
“Let us commit ourselves to policing job. Let us act professionally. Let us change our attitude towards work so that we will achieve what we want.
“Officers and men should make sacrifices. Improve yourself. Attend courses and lectures. I have directed DPOs to embark on constant lecturing, training and re-training of officers. Keep yourself abreast of modern policing techniques; engage in democracy policing, and always ensure the protection of human rights.”
