FG Bans Public Parade Of Criminal Suspects, Citing Human Rights Concerns
In a landmark policy shift, the Federal Government (FG) has directed the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) to end the public parade of criminal suspects, emphasizing the presumption of innocence and the protection of human rights.
The Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, issued the directive, which took effect on Sunday. The decision marks a significant departure from long-standing law enforcement practices in Nigeria.
During a recent joint briefing by the Deputy Force Public Relations Officer and the Commissioner of Police at the National Cyber Crime Center, journalists expecting the usual parade of suspects were informed that the Inspector General of Police (IGP) had enforced the AGF’s directive.
“For cases like vandalism, law enforcement officers will now present only the vandalized items while providing a detailed briefing, rather than parading the suspects publicly,” a senior officer explained.
Going forward, authorities will provide suspects’ details and case updates without subjecting individuals to public exposure before trial.
Prominent human rights lawyer Femi Falana welcomed the move, describing public suspect parades as illegal and discriminatory.
“Parading suspects before trial violates their fundamental right to the presumption of innocence, as enshrined in Section 36 of the Nigerian Constitution and Article 7 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights,” Falana stated.
He also pointed out the double standard in law enforcement, where minor offenders are paraded, but politically exposed persons implicated in corruption cases often escape such treatment.
Falana noted that multiple court rulings, including five judgments from the ECOWAS Court and the Federal High Court, have already declared the practice unlawful.
Senior legal practitioner Mike Ozekhome also praised the move, emphasizing the permanent reputational damage suffered by individuals who are later found innocent.
“Many suspects are publicly branded as criminals before trial, and even when acquitted, the public remembers the parade, not the acquittal,” Ozekhome said.
He urged the IGP to ensure compliance across all 36 state police commands.
According to legal experts, ending the parade of criminal suspects aligns Nigeria with international best practices, reinforcing the country’s commitment to human rights and due process.
Despite the policy change, law enforcement agencies have assured the public that their commitment to crime-fighting remains unwavering.
“We remain resolute in our duty to protect lives and property while respecting the rights of all citizens,” a police officer affirmed.
