Acting Inspector-General of Police, Olukayode Egbetokun, has instructed State Commissioners of Police to establish Complaint Response Units (CRUs) within their respective commands. This directive comes as part of Egbetokun’s dedicated efforts to promote accountability and transparency within the police system, aiming to strengthen the complaints response mechanisms of the Force.
In line with this, CSP El-Mustapha Sani has been appointed as the Head of the CRU, following the reassignment of DCP Markus Basiran as DC Homicide in the Force Criminal Investigations Department Annex, Alagbon, Lagos. The appointment of Sani signifies the IGP’s commitment to ensuring a seamless transition and smooth functioning of the new Complaint Response Units nationwide.
These measures reflect the IGP’s drive to reform and standardize the police system, with a focus on improving efficiency and providing a platform for citizens to voice their complaints. By establishing CRUs and enlisting competent individuals to lead them, Egbetokun aims to foster a culture of accountability and responsiveness while streamlining the processes for addressing grievances within the police force.
The decision to establish Complaint Response Units nationwide by the acting Inspector-General of Police follows a productive meeting between the IG and Chief Commissioner, Public Complaints Commission, Abimbola Ayo-Yusuf, and his team at the Force Headquarters. During this meeting, extensive discussions were held regarding matters of mutual interest and potential areas of collaboration, highlighting the commitment of the IG and the delegation to enhance the complaint resolution process.
In a Friday night communication obtained by our correspondent, CSP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the Force Public Relations Officer, disclosed this significant development. The move shows the determination of the police force to strengthen its complaint response mechanisms and ensure effective and transparent systems for addressing grievances.
With the establishment of CRUs across the country, the Police Force aims to promote trust and confidence in the public by demonstrating its commitment to accountability and responsiveness. This step aligns with the ongoing efforts to reform and standardize the police system, ultimately working towards enhancing the overall efficiency and effectiveness of the force. By prioritizing the establishment of these units and appointing competent leadership, the IG is taking proactive measures to improve the complaint resolution process and create a more citizen-oriented approach within the police force.
CSP Olumuyiwa Adejobi praised the appointment of CSP El-Mustapha Sani as the Head of the Complaint Response Unit, highlighting his exceptional track record and extensive experience in complaint resolution. Sani’s previous work in the Public Complaint Bureau of the Force Public Relations Department, coupled with his strong commitment to justice and fairness, positions him as an ideal candidate to lead the Unit effectively.
The Inspector-General of Police, in line with his unwavering determination to combat corruption and unprofessionalism, restated his directive for all Commissioners of Police in charge of State Commands to establish Complaint Response Unit Offices at their respective State Commands Headquarters. This reaffirms the IG’s commitment to enhancing accountability and transparency within the police force. By ensuring the presence of these Units across the country, the IG aims to create a robust framework that addresses corruption and unprofessional conduct promptly and effectively.
The establishment of Complaint Response Units in the State Commands is not only a reflection of the IG’s dedication but also a strategic step towards fostering a culture of integrity within the police force. By setting up these offices, the force is better equipped to respond to citizen complaints, further improving the level of public trust and confidence in the police. This move demonstrates the IG’s proactive approach to addressing issues within the force and underscores his commitment to providing efficient, fair, and accountable policing services to the public.
The Inspector-General (IG) of Police urges all stakeholders, including the public, civil society organizations, and other law enforcement agencies, to actively collaborate with the Police Complaint Response Units. This collaboration is essential in facilitating the units’ effective execution of their responsibilities in curbing misconducts, excesses, and unprofessionalism among police officers across the nation. By working together, stakeholders can contribute to a safer and more accountable police force.
The IG emphasizes the Force’s unwavering commitment to transparency, accountability, and the safeguarding of citizens’ rights. This commitment is instrumental in building public trust and fostering a harmonious relationship between the police and the people they serve. The Police Complaint Response Units play a vital role in upholding these principles and ensuring that the rights of individuals are protected.
In order to achieve these objectives, the IG encourages active participation and support from all relevant stakeholders. The collective effort of the public, civil society organizations, and other law enforcement agencies is instrumental in fostering a culture of transparency, accountability, and respect for human rights within the police force. Together, they can contribute to the creation of a more effective and professional police service that works towards the best interests of the society it serves. GMTNews
