WAYPAN Urges Police Reform for Youth Rights Protection

The West African Youth Protect Advocacy Network (WAYPAN) has called for the protection of youths and citizens' rights in Nigeria following the appointment of Mr. Tunji Disu as the new Inspector General of Police (IGP).

Rafiu Adeniran Lawal, in a press statement, highlighted the urgent need for police reform to address longstanding concerns regarding the Nigerian police force's professionalism and respect for citizens' rights, particularly for young people. Reports from local and international human rights organizations indicate that young Nigerians continue to face police harassment, unlawful arrests, and wrongful profiling.

WAYPAN condemned the misuse of digital platforms for blackmail and fraud, noting that cases pursued under the cybercrime law often involve civil disputes rather than criminal offenses. The organization urged Mr.

Disu to review cases of rights violations involving citizens, particularly the youth, and to strengthen accountability mechanisms within the police force. They emphasized the importance of retraining officers in human rights standards and promoting a youth-friendly approach to policing.