Exercise Restraint, Uphold Human Rights Standards In Handling Suspects - Osun ACP Urges Security Agents

Read Time:1 Minute, 46 Second

The Assistant Commissioner of Police (Administration), Osun State Command, ACP Ademola Adebayo, has called on security operatives to exercise restraint and uphold human rights standards when handling suspects.

Adebayo gave the charge on Wednesday in Osogbo while speaking on the second day of a three-day seminar focusing on human rights, musketry, character and forensic analysis, as well as the role of security agencies in law enforcement.

He urged officers to depend on their judgment and professionalism during operations, noting that any form of misconduct could compromise justice.

According to him, assaulting an officer on duty is a criminal offence, adding that the law provides adequate protection for security personnel engaged in legitimate assignments.

The ACP warned that torture remains unacceptable under any circumstance, stressing that no officer is empowered to inflict harm on suspects.

“Do not torture, irrespective of the situation. You have no right to torture. If you torture someone and the person dies, you alone will answer for it,” he cautioned.

He emphasised the need for security personnel to understand legal instruments guiding human rights protection.

Adebayo blamed inadequate funding of security agencies for some rights violations, arguing that lack of resources often contributes to abuse.

He also urged lawyers and human rights advocates to recognise the challenges faced by security operatives in the discharge of their duties.

The ACP appealed to the public to show understanding and cooperate with security agencies rather than approach them with hostility.

On citizens recording police activities, he said video documentation could assist in strengthening transparency and accountability.

“Those recording police activities are helping by providing evidence,” he noted.

Adebayo encouraged officers to embrace openness and even assign personnel to document their operations, saying, “Begin to do the right thing and appoint someone to record.”

He further advised security operatives against antagonising lawyers representing suspects, calling for mutual respect within the justice system.

“When a suspect is arrested, officers should be commended for working despite many challenges. Observing human rights is mandatory,” he said.

He also reminded personnel to study the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, 2015, so they can apply it accurately when required.