The death of Jimoh Abdulquadri in police custody has reignited long-standing conversations about accountability within the Nigeria Police Force. However, the swift actions of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, signal a pivotal shift in the Force’s approach to justice, transparency, and professionalism.
In an extraordinary gesture of empathy and commitment, IGP Egbetokun personally visited the bereaved family of Abdulquadri on December 22, 2024, only two days after the tragic incident. His directive to the Force Criminal Investigations Department (FCID) to immediately take over the case underscores a resolve to ensure justice is not only served but seen to be served. “No stone will be left unturned in uncovering the circumstances that led to this tragic incident,” Egbetokun assured the family, a promise that resonates with his broader agenda of police reform.
This is not the first time the Nigeria Police Force has demonstrated a commitment to justice under decisive leadership. In 2020, after the #EndSARS protests brought global attention to police brutality in Nigeria, the Force responded by disbanding the notorious Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS). Though the process was far from perfect, it marked a significant step toward addressing systemic issues within the institution.
Kwara: IGP Egbetokun Visits Family of Late Jimoh Abdulquadri, Orders FCID to Take Over Investigation
Similarly, in 2022, the police acted decisively in the case of a university student, Deborah Samuel, who was tragically lynched in Sokoto over allegations of blasphemy. The swift arrests and prosecution of suspects showcased the Force’s determination to confront mob violence and uphold the rule of law.
More recently, in 2023, the police launched a nationwide crackdown on cultism, leading to over 3,000 arrests and the dismantling of criminal syndicates in several states. These efforts earned praise from local communities and international observers for their meticulous execution and respect for human rights.
The Abdulquadri case provides yet another opportunity for the Nigeria Police to demonstrate its evolving culture of accountability. By entrusting the FCID—a unit known for its expertise and professionalism—with the investigation, IGP Egbetokun is reaffirming his commitment to due process and justice.
“The Nigeria Police Force has zero tolerance for unprofessional conduct. We remain steadfast in ensuring that the rights of every citizen are respected,” Egbetokun stated during his visit to Kwara. These words, coupled with action, are essential in rebuilding trust between the police and the public.
While the Nigeria Police Force is far from perfect, strides like these signify progress. Under IGP Egbetokun’s leadership, the Force has shown a willingness to confront its flaws and strive for a higher standard of professionalism. The handling of the Abdulquadri case will be a litmus test for these reforms, and the public will undoubtedly be watching closely.
True reform requires consistency and transparency, but gestures like IGP Egbetokun’s visit and his directive to the FCID offer hope.
By confronting tragedies head-on and ensuring justice prevails, the Nigeria Police can begin to rewrite its narrative, one case at a time.
The question remains: Will this momentum be sustained? For now, the actions of the IGP offer a glimmer of hope in the pursuit of a more accountable and people-centered police force.
