Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has defended the Nigeria Police Force’s controversial policy of not arresting surrendered bandits, explaining that it forms part of a wider security strategy combining military operations with reconciliation efforts.
Speaking on the policy’s rising criticism across the country, Egbetokun said the police will welcome any bandit who voluntarily lays down arms, insisting that such individuals will not be criminalised immediately.
According to him, “bandits seeking to embrace peace will not be arrested voluntarily,” a move he believes encourages disengagement from violence and supports long-term stability.
However, the IGP stressed that the leniency applies only to those who genuinely surrender. Security forces, he noted, are continuing “aggressive operations” against armed groups still active in Katsina, Zamfara, and other high-risk states.
The dual strategy — reconciliation for repentant fighters and military pressure on active criminals — has triggered intense debate nationwide.
Civil society groups warn that the approach creates accountability gaps, especially considering past atrocities linked to bandit groups, including mass abductions, village raids, and attacks on religious centres.
Some analysts argue that allowing fighters to walk free without prosecution risks rewarding impunity, while others say it encourages more armed criminals to surrender and reduces bloodshed.
Egbetokun, however, insists the policy aligns with human-rights standards and ongoing police reforms. He reiterated his earlier directive cautioning officers against unlawful detentions and prolonged custody of suspects.
Despite growing backlash, the police chief maintains that Nigeria’s security policy will continue to rely on both “stick and carrot” — rewarding peaceful surrender while intensifying military action against those who refuse to disarm.
