Tunde Disu
The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has called on the newly appointed Inspector-General of Police, Tunde Disu, to prioritise sweeping reforms aimed at eliminating entrenched corruption within the Nigeria Police Force.
In a strongly worded statement issued on Sunday, by its national Coordinator Comrade Emmanuel Nnadoxie Onwubiko, the advocacy group described the police institution as deeply affected by bribery and misconduct, alleging that corrupt practices have become widespread across various operational units, including those under the direct supervision of the Inspector-General’s office in Abuja.
HURIWA criticised the tenure of former IGP, Kayode Egbetokun, alleging that corruption expanded under his leadership, with little effort made to discipline erring officers. The group claimed that victims of crime are frequently forced to pay to file complaints, fund police operations such as fuel for patrol vehicles, and even pay for bail—despite constitutional provisions that guarantee bail without charge.
The organisation also raised alarm over what it described as a pattern of bribery-induced arrests and arbitrary detentions, particularly in Anambra State and Enugu State. According to HURIWA, business owners, property developers, and other citizens are allegedly targeted through petitions it claims are sometimes fabricated, leading to unlawful arrests and prolonged detention until payments are made.
The group alleged that some officers within specialised units, including the Special Investigation Unit (SIU), collaborate with civilian intermediaries to extort money from detainees. It claimed that victims are often threatened with multiple charges—ranging from financial crimes to cyber offences—before being coerced into paying large sums for their release.
Citing internal estimates, HURIWA said it has documented over 100 cases of such alleged abuses within the past year, with victims reportedly paying millions of naira under duress. The group further alleged that these practices generate significant illicit revenue annually for corrupt elements within the force.
As part of its recommendations, HURIWA urged the IGP to establish independent and discreet investigative panels made up of credible police officers and civil society actors to probe corruption allegations within the force. It also called for lifestyle audits of senior officers suspected of owning assets beyond their legitimate income.
The organisation specifically requested an investigation into allegations involving a senior officer attached to the SIU in Abuja, who was accused in media reports of extorting money from a businessman following his detention under disputed circumstances.
HURIWA maintained that while many officers in the police force remain professional, a “powerful minority” continues to undermine public trust through corrupt practices. It warned that failure to address these issues could further weaken the credibility of the police and compromise national security.
The group urged the new police leadership to act decisively, stating that restoring integrity within the force is essential to improving law enforcement and rebuilding citizens’ confidence.