IGP Egbetokun Elevates Legal Department to Directorate Status, Names AIG Ehiede as Director

Linus Aleke in Abuja

The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has approved the elevation of the Legal Section of the Force to the Directorate of Legal Services.

In a statement yesterday, the Police explained the elevation is in line with ongoing strategic reforms aimed at strengthening institutional capacity and enhancing operational efficiency across all departments of the Nigeria Police Force.

The statement, signed by Force Spokesperson Olumuyiwa Adejobi, stated the Directorate will serve as the apex legal arm of the Nigeria Police Force, responsible for the coordination and delivery of legal services.

He stated this includes legal training, comprehensive policy review, and structured engagement with prosecutorial bodies, the judiciary, and other relevant stakeholders in the justice sector.

The move, he said, is designed to create a clear institutional identity for the Force’s legal operations, strengthen cohesion, and secure recognition across both domestic and international jurisdictions.

To this end, the Inspector-General announced the appointment of AIG Ohiozoba Ehiede as the pioneer Director of the Directorate of Legal Services.

The spokesperson noted that AIG Ehiede brings with him a wealth of experience, proven leadership, and a distinguished record of service, which are expected to drive the Directorate’s mandate with excellence.

“This upgrade reflects the Nigeria Police Force’s renewed commitment to aligning its operations with global law enforcement standards and ensuring that legal processes within the Force meet the highest levels of professionalism, transparency, and efficiency.

“By consolidating its legal structures under a directorate framework, the Force aims to improve its prosecutorial prowess in line with international best policing standards,” the statement read.

The Inspector-General enjoined all officers and men of the Force, particularly legal practitioners within its ranks, to support the Directorate in its mission to advance justice delivery, improve prosecutorial success rates, and enhance public confidence in police operations.