In relation to the recent revelations regarding the conditions of detention of juvenile detainees, the decision was taken following a wave of public outrage. Concerns soared after 76 juveniles were produced in court last Friday, some showing signs of malnutrition. Five juveniles reportedly collapsed in court, requiring immediate medical attention.
Police Commissioner Olatunji Egbetokun has vowed to ensure the welfare of all individuals in custody, in response to public anger. Currently on a mission to the Interpol General Assembly in Glasgow, the Police Commissioner General speculated that the fainting incident may have been staged to influence public opinion against the police. However, he confirmed that prompt medical attention was provided.
Public interest in the issue prompted President Bola Tinubu to intervene, ordering that all charges against the juveniles be dropped. The directive highlights the growing concern over the treatment of juveniles in police custody and the need to improve standards of detention.
Muyiwa Adejobi, spokesperson for the Nigeria Police Force, revealed that the Commissioner General of Police had issued instructions to assess procedural practices in the detention of juveniles. “The Inspector General is committed to addressing any procedural flaws or concerns,” Adejobi said, stressing the priority given to accountability and the welfare of vulnerable individuals in custody.
In a bid to improve the handling of juvenile cases, the Commissioner General of Police announced a workshop for Assistant Commissioners of Criminal Investigation and Heads of Investigation Units. Scheduled for November 7, 2024 at the Police Resource Centre in Jabi, the event aims to establish standards of “child-friendly investigation and care” across law enforcement.