NEW WIG NEW DUTY: IGP Charges Police Lawyers on Integrity and Justice

Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, has charged recently called-to-Bar officers of the Nigeria Police Force to uphold integrity, strengthen prosecutions, and use their legal expertise to reform policing in Nigeria.

Speaking at a meeting with the officers on Monday, September 29, 2025, at the Force Headquarters in Abuja, Egbetokun congratulated the officers for successfully completing the Nigerian Law School programme, noting that one of them graduated with First Class Honours — an achievement he described as “rare and outstanding.”

“Your success is not for yourselves alone — it is an asset for the Force and for Nigeria,” the IGP said. “Policing is about enforcing the law, and no Force can do this effectively without sound legal knowledge.”

He reminded the officers that their dual status as lawyers and police officers placed a unique responsibility on them, urging them to serve as custodians of justice both in the courtroom and in the field.

The IGP emphasized that the recent elevation of the Police Legal Section into a full Directorate of Legal Services, under the command of an Assistant Inspector-General of Police, marked a turning point in the Force’s legal operations. He tasked the newly qualified lawyers with ensuring tighter prosecutions, safeguarding the Force against legal vulnerabilities, and shaping policy in line with constitutional and international standards.

“The Nigeria Police does not need lawyers in uniform for decoration. We need officers who add value, defend this institution with courage and integrity, and inspire others,” .

Egbetokun declared.

He outlined clear expectations for the officers, urging them to:

• Strengthen prosecutions and ensure professionalism in legal processes.
• Uphold integrity and remain uncompromising against corruption.
• Provide clear and authoritative legal advice.
• Advance reforms aligned with constitutional and human rights standards.
• Serve as role models to other officers.

The IGP concluded by charging the officers to justify the investment of the Force in their training and to carry themselves with humility, discipline, and loyalty.

“This achievement is not about the gown you will wear in court,” he said. “It is about the standard you will set in this uniform. The Police at this time, more than ever before, need officers who will make the law work for justice, for discipline, and for Nigeria.”