By Abubakar Ahmed
The Rule of Law and Empowerment Initiative, also known as Partners West Africa Nigeria (PWAN), with support from UKaid, has organized a one-day Media Townhall Meeting in Maiduguri, Borno State. The event, held under the Enhancing Police Governance project, aimed at equipping journalists from the northeast with a deeper understanding of the Police Act 2020 and its regulations.
Speaking at the event, Zainab Waziri, PWAN’s Communications Officer in Borno State, underscored the importance of fostering trust, transparency, and accountability between law enforcement agencies and the public. She noted that the project is being implemented across six states: Kano, Plateau, Borno, Edo, Lagos, and Enugu.
Dr. Kelechi Akubueze of the National Human Rights Commission, who served as the lead speaker, linked the Police Act to human rights. He highlighted critical provisions of the Act, including the fixed tenure for the Inspector General of Police, the prohibition of torture during interrogations, and the necessity of employing qualified lawyers as prosecution counsels.
Participants acknowledged the vital role of the media in promoting the Police Act and tackling policing challenges through evidence-based reporting. They were also educated on their responsibility to help the public understand the rights, obligations, and expected conduct of police officers, thereby enhancing accountability and public trust in the police force.
