How to Report Police Misconduct in Nigeria

Police brutality and misconduct remain pressing concerns in Nigeria, despite repeated promises of reform. The EndSARS protest of 2020 was a nationwide response to years of harassment, extortion, and violence by some officers of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF).

Although the NPF often uses slogans like “Police is your friend” and “Bail is free”, many Nigerians continue to face harassment, illegal arrests, extortion, and even brutality. If you have been a victim, here are clear steps to report an erring police officer in Nigeria.

Police Officers’ Misconducts You Can Report

You can report a police officer in Nigeria for the following misconduct, which go against the Police Act (2020) and the Nigerian Police Disciplinary Regulations:

• Harassment or intimidation

• Use of violence or brutality on innocent citizens

• Illegal arrests or detention

• Demanding payment for bail (which is illegal)

• Taking or demanding bribes

• Extortion of money from citizens

• Extrajudicial killings

• Sexual harassment or exploitation

• Other unprofessional conduct

HOW TO MAKE A COMPLAINT AGAINST THE MISCONDUCT OF A POLICE OFFICER IN NIGERIA

The following are steps to follow to report an erring police officer in Nigeria:

If you are in a position to do so safely, gather evidence of the officer’s misconduct. This can include:

• Photos or videos of the incident

• Voice recordings (if legal and safe)

• Receipts or transfer proof of extorted money

• Names and contacts of witnesses

Having solid evidence strengthens your case when you report a police officer in Nigeria.

STEP 1: DON’T THREATEN THE POLICE OFFICER

When dealing with an armed police officer, it is important to stay calm and avoid confrontation. Many Nigerians make the mistake of using vulgar words or getting into heated arguments, but this can quickly escalate and put your life at risk. An officer could react violently, leading to serious injury or even death.

If you want to report an officer or file a complaint later, your safety must come first. Remain polite, cautious, and composed. Never use provocative phrases like “Do you know who I am?” — such words have sadly cost many innocent people their lives.

Staying alive and collected is the first step in learning how to report a police officer in Nigeria effectively.

STEP 2: NOTE THE POLICE NAME AND RANK

When you want to report a police officer in Nigeria, gathering accurate details is very important. Always try to note the officer’s name and rank, which are usually displayed on the uniform names on the chest area and ranks on the shoulders for senior officers, or on the sleeves/side for sergeants, corporals, and constables.

Many people overlook this step and later struggle to give a proper description of the officer who violated their rights. Being observant and recording these details will make your complaint stronger and easier to follow up.

STEP 3: WRITE YOUR COMPLAINT TO THE NIGERIAN POLICE

When filing your complaint, make sure you provide a clear and detailed account of the incident. Write down when, where, what, why, and how it happened, as these details will be crucial during the investigation. Be specific about the date, time, and location of the event, and describe exactly what the officer did.

If there were witnesses present, ask them to also provide written statements to support your report. The more precise and well-documented your account is, the stronger your case will be when you report an officer for misconduct or learn how to report a police officer in Nigeria effectively.

STEP 4: SEND TO THE COMPLAINT RESPONSE UNIT OF THE NIGERIAN POLICE FORCE

The Nigerian Police Force has set up several official channels for citizens to report a police officer in Nigeria who engages in misconduct. All complaints should be directed to the Complaint Response Unit (CRU), which is responsible for handling cases against erring officers.

You can send your report via email to policepcrru@gmail.com, or by post to:

The Complaint Response Unit (CRU)
First Floor, Force Headquarters
Louis Edet House, Shehu Shagari Way
Central Area, Abuja.

These channels ensure your complaint reaches the right authority for proper investigation and action.

In addition to the CRU, you can also report police misconduct to:

• Police Public Complaints Committee (PPCC), established by the Ministry of Justice.

• State Police Commands, most of which have human rights desks.

STEP 5: FOLLOW UP ACCORDINGLY

After lodging your complaint, it is important to follow up to ensure action is taken against the erring officer. The Nigerian Police has provided dedicated channels for you to track your case and seek justice.

You can report a police officer in Nigeria or follow up on an existing complaint through the following contacts:

• Phone calls only: 08057000001, 08057000002

• SMS & WhatsApp only: 08057000003

•  Twitter (X): @PoliceNG_PCRRU

Following up through these channels helps you stay updated on the status of your case and increases the chances of timely resolution.

STEP 6: SEEK JUSTICE FROM THE COURTS

The Nigerian Constitution (Sections 34, 35, and 36) protects your fundamental rights against torture, unlawful arrest, and degrading treatment. The Police Act, 2020, also reinforces accountability within the force. These laws empower you to sue the Nigerian Police Force and any officer found guilty of misconduct.

Justice in Nigeria can sometimes be delayed or even denied, but as a victim, you still have the constitutional right to seek redress in court. If other complaint channels do not bring results, you can sue the Nigerian Police Force and the specific officer responsible for misconduct.

This legal route should be considered when other options fail, as it gives you the opportunity to demand accountability and enforce your rights under the law. Knowing how to report a police officer in Nigeria also includes understanding that the courts remain a last resort for justice.

Step 7: Alternative Channels

If official police complaint systems do not yield results, you can escalate the matter to independent human rights organizations such as:

• National Human Rights Commission (NHRC)

• CLEEN Foundation

• Amnesty International Nigeria

• SERAP (Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project)

These groups can apply pressure and sometimes provide legal support for victims of police abuse.

Sample Report: Police Misconduct in Nigeria

Here’s a sample format you (or any victim) can use to report police misconduct in Nigeria. It’s written in a simple but professional way that the Complaint Response Unit (CRU) or any authority can act on:

Your Name: [Insert full name]
Phone Number: [Insert contact number]
Email Address: [Insert email]
Home Address: [Insert address]

Date of Incident: [Insert date]
Time of Incident: [Insert time]
Location of Incident: [Exact place where it happened]

Officer’s Name/Rank (if known): [Insert details from uniform or badge]
Police Station/Unit (if known): [Insert station/unit]

Details of Complaint

On [date] at about [time], I was approached by [officer’s name/rank if available] at [location]. During this encounter, the officer [describe misconduct clearly – e.g., demanded money for bail, harassed, assaulted, or threatened me].

The actions of the officer were unprofessional, unlawful, and a clear violation of my rights as a citizen.

Witnesses (if any):

• [Name + contact of witness 1]

• [Name + contact of witness 2]

Relief/Action Requested

I respectfully request that this matter be investigated by the Complaint Response Unit (CRU) and that appropriate disciplinary measures be taken against the officer involved.

I am willing to provide further information or appear in person if required.

Signature: ___________________________
Date: _______________________________

📌 You can send this report to:

• Email: policepcrru@gmail.com

• Post: Complaint Response Unit, First Floor, Force Headquarters, Louis Edet House, Shehu Shagari Way, Central Area, Abuja.

• Phone (Calls only): 08057000001, 08057000002

• SMS/WhatsApp: 08057000003

• Twitter (X): @PoliceNG_PCRRU

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is bail really free in Nigeria?
Yes. Bail is legally free, and demanding money for bail is misconduct that can be reported.

2. Can I report a police officer anonymously?
Yes, you can file an anonymous complaint with the CRU or NHRC if you fear retaliation.

3. What happens after I report a police officer in Nigeria?
The CRU investigates, contacts the officer’s division, and provides feedback. Disciplinary actions may include suspension, demotion, dismissal, or prosecution, depending on the offence.

4. Can I sue the Nigerian Police Force for harassment?
Yes. Victims can sue both the individual officer and the Nigerian Police Force for damages under the Constitution and Police Act, 2020.

5. Can I use video evidence in reporting police misconduct?
Yes. Photos, videos, and audio recordings can be used as supporting evidence in your complaint.

Knowing how to report police misconduct in Nigeria empowers you to stand up for your rights and hold officers accountable. By documenting incidents, following the right channels, and seeking legal redress when necessary, you contribute to building a more just and accountable society.

Remember: staying calm, observant, and persistent is the key to successfully reporting a police officer in Nigeria.