The Commissioner of Police in Lagos State, CP. Olohundare Moshood Jimoh, has issued a stern warning to the CSP. Adetayo Akerele-led Lagos State Taskforce on Environmental and Special Offences following widespread criticism over alleged human rights violations.
The controversy surrounding the Lagos Taskforce alleged human rights violation stems from a viral report by Object TV involving a motorist, one Mr. Lateef Adeyemo, who was arrested and is currently being prosecuted for allegedly driving against traffic.
State taskforce and human rights
Addressing journalists and bloggers after a lecture session with the state taskforce personnel at the Police Command Headquarters in Ikeja at the weekend, CP Jimoh insisted that the motorist’s arrest followed due process and did not involve any form of abuse.
According to him, “I brought them to the headquarters here, lectured them and cautioned them. It is important for the public to know that this lecture is being carried out for them to understand their responsibility to enforce law and order with respect for human rights and dignity.”
He maintained that despite public concerns over human rights, available video evidence did not show any act of dehumanisation.
“I want to say, throughout the video that has been displayed, there is no instance where this individual was being dehumanised, either being beaten or dragged on the floor or dealt with in an inappropriate manner that constitutes a human rights violation,” he said.
Police warn of possible dissolution
The police boss, however, warned that any proven case of misconduct tied to human rights violations would attract strict consequences, including the possible dissolution of the taskforce.
“I’ve warned them, I’ve cautioned them, and equally let them know that if there’s any complaint which clearly shows that they are violating the rights and dignity of any person, I will not hesitate in dissolving the taskforce,” CP Jimoh stated.
He stressed that no officer is indispensable, adding that the command would not tolerate abuse of power under any guise.
Motorist’s arrest and court process
Providing clarity on the arrest, the CP said the suspect was promptly arraigned before a mobile court after his apprehension.
“The police personnel attached to the taskforce promptly took the man before a mobile court. He was heard and granted bail, but because he could not meet the bail conditions, he was remanded,” he explained.
Jimoh reiterated that the enforcement action was within the law governing environmental sanitation and related offences in Lagos State, dismissing claims of illegality.
Call for public cooperation
While acknowledging public scrutiny over Lagos Taskforce, the Commissioner urged residents to remain law-abiding and engage the police through proper channels when aggrieved.
“But where any member of the public feels that their rights are violated, they should contact the police. investigation will be done thoroughly and transparently,” he assured.
He also called on the media to exercise caution and responsibility, noting that while criticism is welcome, it must not undermine officers working to maintain law and order.
