The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, has voiced strong concerns about the rising cases of police high-handedness and extortion across Nigeria. Speaking during a high-level meeting with senior police officers in Abuja, the IGP reiterated his administration’s commitment to tackling corruption and misconduct within the Nigeria Police Force (NPF).
The conference, which took place at the Goodluck Ebele Jonathan International Peacekeeping Hall at Force Headquarters, gathered top-ranking police officials, including Assistant Inspectors-General, Commissioners of Police, and heads of various formations. During his speech, the IGP didn’t mince words about his displeasure with reports of police misconduct, which has increasingly plagued the reputation of the force.
“We Must Uphold Professional Standards” – IGP Egbetokun
IGP Egbetokun emphasized that professionalism and ethical conduct are the cornerstones of policing. He expressed disappointment that some officers have been involved in illegal practices, such as extorting money from the public and using excessive force. He warned that such behavior would no longer be tolerated under his leadership.
“Our duty as officers is to protect and serve with integrity. Unfortunately, some officers have strayed from this path, engaging in actions that damage the public’s trust in us. We must put an end to this,” the IGP stated, his tone firm as he addressed the attendees.
In a bid to curb these practices, the IGP directed senior officers to ensure proper supervision of their subordinates. He charged them to closely monitor officers’ activities in their various commands to prevent further acts of extortion and high-handedness.
Special Units to Conduct Routine Checks
As part of the effort to stamp out corruption, IGP Egbetokun ordered the IGP X-Squad, the Monitoring Unit, and the Complaint Response Unit (CRU) to carry out routine checks on police officers across the country. These units are tasked with identifying and addressing misconduct, ensuring that strict penalties are imposed on officers found guilty of violating the law.
“The responsibility of maintaining discipline lies with both the officers on the ground and their supervisors. Any officer found guilty of misconduct will be dealt with according to the law, and any supervising officer who fails in their duties will also be held accountable,” he declared.
This approach sends a clear message to officers across the country that misconduct will not be overlooked, and that higher-ranking officials will also face repercussions for failing to uphold their leadership responsibilities.
Warning Against Name-Dropping and Extortion
A particular issue the IGP addressed is the growing trend of some officers using his name or that of other senior officers to extort money from unsuspecting citizens. He made it clear that any officer caught in this unethical practice would face severe consequences.
“It has come to our attention that some officers are using my name or the names of other senior officials to intimidate and extort the public. This is unacceptable. Any officer found engaging in such behavior will face serious disciplinary actions,” Egbetokun warned.
The IGP’s tough stance on this matter reflects his administration’s zero-tolerance approach to corruption. He called on all officers to desist from such actions, stressing that the days of impunity are over.
Rebuilding Public Trust in the Police
IGP Egbetokun’s leadership has been characterized by a strong focus on restoring the public’s trust in the Nigeria Police Force. He acknowledged that rebuilding this trust requires not only addressing internal corruption but also ensuring that the force acts with transparency and accountability.
To achieve this, the IGP encouraged the public to come forward and report any cases of police misconduct, including instances where officers attempt to use his name for fraudulent activities. He assured Nigerians that their reports would be taken seriously and investigated thoroughly.
“The police force belongs to the people, and we rely on your cooperation to help us police the country effectively. If you witness any officer trying to extort money or use my name inappropriately, please report it immediately. We need your help to root out these bad elements,” Egbetokun urged.