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  • Egbetokun to deliver lecture

    Egbetokun to deliver lecture

    Inspector-General of Police Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun will on March 7 deliver the maiden distinguished alumni lecture of the Centre for Peace and Security Studies (CPSS), Al-Hikmah University, Ilorin.

    The lecture is titled: ‘Effective policing of the Nigerian nation for enduring peace and security: The Role of stakeholders.’

    The lecture is billed to hold at the Faculty of Law Moot Court of the institution, Vice Chancellor, Prof Noah Yusuf, has said.

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    He has also inaugurated a nine-man planning committee to organise a successful lecture and subsequent ones.

    The committee is chaired by Dr. Abdulazeez Adekola, the centre acting director.

    Other members of the committee include Dr. Hameed Bolaji (acting head, Department of Science Education), Dr. Sanusi Lafiagi (representing Centre for Islamic Heritage), Dr. Taiye Abejide (acting head, Department of History and International Studies), Dr.  Ibrahim Yahaya (acting director, Advancement Centre), Dr. Oba Hassan Abdulquadri and Dr. Zarat Othman both of the Centre for Peace and Security Studies and Secretary), Dr. Kafayat Araba (acting head, Department of Sociology and Criminology) and Dr. Monsurat Wonuola (Department of Mass Communication).

  • Egbetokun, Cardoso, Kyari, others risk being arrested

    Egbetokun, Cardoso, Kyari, others risk being arrested

    Inpector-General (IG) Kayode Egbetokun, Central Bank Governor (CBN) Yemi Cardoso and Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, (NNPCL) Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) Mele Kyari risk being arrested, it was learnt yesterday.

    Others are the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) Chairman/Chief Executive Officer Zacch Adedeji and the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Mr. Adewale Adeniyi among other CEOs.

    The Senate, through its Public Accounts Committee (SPAC), vowed to issue warrant of arrests against them for failing to appear before the Red Chamber panel.

    The CEOs were summoned to defend queries against them in several audit reports by the Office of the Auditor General of the Federation (AuGF).

    The SPAC Chairman, Ahmed Aliyu Wadada, who spoke with reporters, accused the FIRS CEO of shunning eight invitations extended to him by the committee.

    He described the failure of the heads of the government agencies to honour Senate invitations as an affront on the National Assembly and an insult on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

    Wadada said: “Nobody in Nigeria is above the law. We are all supposed to operate under the laws guiding our various engagements as citizens of Nigeria. If the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, President Bola Ahmed Tinibu, will set aside his enormous commitments as President to come to the National Assembly as a mark of respect to the Assembly, to present budget, I wonder how any appointee will think and feel that he is above the law or he is too busy to appear before the members of the people’s parliament.

    “This is unacceptable and from today, after this press briefing, whoever invitation is extended to and he or she refuses to appear before this all-important committee, warrant of arrest will be issued and we will call on the President to disengage that person because the person does not share in the dreams of Mr. President to and for making Nigeria a better place.

    “Permit me to say that from inception of this committee to date, more than eight invitations have been extended to the chairman of FIRS, who has intentionally refused to appear before this committee and also hasn’t been responding to communications at all from this committee.

    “If he truly shares the dream of the Renewed Hope Agenda (RHA), I wonder why he will not come here for us to exchange what we have going forward to make Nigeria a better place.

    “He should also be reminded that we, on this side of the divide, are sitting on mandate, not appointment. We are not appointed. We were elected by Nigerians.

    Read Also: Egbetokun’s leadership, police recruitment and conflict management

    “So, if he does not have respect for the mandate given to us by Nigerians, he should have respect for the mandate given to his boss that appointed him.

    “With this, the line is drawn between this committee and the FIRS. The next appointment, I mean, invitation that is given or communication sent to him and he does not respond, warrant of arrest will be issued and we will call on the President to say that your appointee in Federal Inland Revenue Service does not share your dream and he is not helping your situation.

    Frowing at what he described as disrespect by the Kyari-led NNPCL management and the NCS, Wadada said: “For NNPCL, because the issues are multifaceted, we don’t want to take time here to outline the issues that have got to do with Federal Inland Revenue Service or NNPCL. NNPCL as well has never appeared before this committee.

    “The few communications NNPCL responded to the committee, the information are neither here nor there. For NNPCL as well, the line is drawn. The next invitation NNPCL does not appear, warrant of arrest will be issued and we will also call on the President to do the needful.

    “The NCS, on the side of the Auditor-General’s report, there are billions to be accounted for. All efforts to get the NCS to the table, to know how did this happen, what is the way forward, we are still where we were from day before yesterday to now, no change.”

    The committee also alleged that the apex bank has been avoiding its invitations to defend issues related to Ways and Means.

  • Legality of Egbetokun’s IGP status and Sowore’s prosecution

    Legality of Egbetokun’s IGP status and Sowore’s prosecution

    Dr. Wahab Shittu (San) examines the legality of the continued service of Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun, the arrest and prosecution of Omoyele Sowore.

    The Inspector General of Police (IGP) is the highest-ranking officer in the Nigeria Police Force, vested with the authority to maintain law and order. However, the legality of the IGP’s continued service is governed by two primary statutes: the1999 Constitution of Nigeria (as amended)and the Police Act 2020.

    The 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, as amended in Section 215(1)(a) states:

    “There shall be an Inspector-General of Police who, subject to section 216(2) of this Constitution, shall be appointed by the President on the advice of the Nigeria Police Council from among serving members of the Nigeria Police Force.”

    However, the Constitution does not explicitly stipulate the tenure or retirement age for the IGP.

    This silence has historically allowed IGPs to remain in office indefinitely, creating a culture of impunity and undermining institutional accountability.

    Section 7(6) of the Police Act 2020expresslystates:

    “The person appointed to the office of the Inspector-General of Police shall hold office for four years.”

    This provision was a legislative response to past controversies, such as the extended tenure of IGP Mohammed Adamu in 2021, which a Federal High Court later declared unlawful (Suit No.FHC/ABJ/CS/106/2021). The Act’s intent was clearlyto prevent the consolidation of unchecked power and align Nigeria’s policing with democratic norms.

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    This provision establishes a fixed four-year tenure for the IGP, aiming to ensure stability and continuity in police leadership.

    Traditionally, the Public Service Rules mandate retirement at 60 years of age or after 35 years of service, whichever comes first. Rule 020810 of the Federal Government Public Service Rules states:

    “The compulsory retirement age for all grades in the Service shall be 60 years or 35 years of pensionable service whichever is earlier.”

    Critics argue that since IGP Egbetokun has reached the age of 60, he should retire in accordance with these rules. However, it’s essential to consider the specific provisions of the Police Act,particularly Section 7(6)which is a specialized statute governing police affairs.

    The principle of legal interpretation holds that when two statutes conflict, the specific statute prevails over the general one (lex specialis derogat legi generali). In this context, the Police Act, being specific to police administration, takes precedence over the general Public Service Rules.

    Furthermore, Section 1(3) of the 1999 Constitutionas amendedprovides: “If any other law is inconsistent with the provisions of this Constitution, this Constitution shall prevail, and that other law shall, to the extent of the inconsistency, be void.”

    Since the Constitution does not prescribe a retirement age for the IGP, the provisions of the Police Act regarding tenure are not in conflict with the Constitution.

    Given the specific provisions of the Police Act 2020, which grants a four-year tenure to the IGP regardless of age, and the absence of a constitutional stipulation on the retirement age forthis position, IGP Kayode Egbetokun’s continued service is legally valid.

    Arrest, prosecution of Sowore

    Omoyele Sowore, a journalist and political activist, has been a vocal critic of the Nigerian government. His activism has led to multiple arrests and prosecutions, raising concerns about freedom of expression and the rule of law.

    Sowore’s recent arrest was predicated on allegations of cyberstalking and defamation, particularly concerning his reference to IGP Egbetokun as the “illegal IGP.” The Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act 2015 criminalizes various online offenses, including cyberstalking. Section 24 of the Act states:

    “Any person who knowingly or intentionally sends a message or other matter by means of computer systems or network that… (b) to bully, threaten or harass another person… commits an offense under this Act.”

    The authorities allege that Sowore’s statements constituted harassment and were intended to incite public disorder.

    The 1999 Constitutionas amended, under Section 39(1), guarantees freedom of expression:

    “Every person shall be entitled to freedom of expression, including freedom to hold opinions and to receive and impart ideas and information without interference.”

    However, this right is not absolute. Section 45(1) allows for restrictions:

    “Nothing in sections 37, 38, 39, 40 and 41 of this Constitution shall invalidate any law that is reasonably

    justifiable in a democratic society… in the interest of defense, public safety, public order, public morality or public health.”

    The challenge lies in balancing Sowore’s right to free expression with the state’s interest in maintaining public order and protecting individuals from defamation and harassment.

    While the state has a duty to maintain public order and protect individuals from defamation, it must also uphold constitutional guarantees of freedom of expression. Any prosecution of Omoyele Sowore should be conducted with strict adherence to due process, ensuring that his fundamental rights are not unduly infringed upon.

  • Egbetokun’s leadership, police recruitment and conflict management

    Egbetokun’s leadership, police recruitment and conflict management

    • By Olumuyiwa Adejobi

    The efficiency of the Nigeria Police Force, which happens to be the lead security agency in internal security, to combat the increased rates of crimes and criminality across the length and breadth of Nigeria has over time been undermined by a persistent shortage of manpower. With a population exceeding 200 million, the police-to-citizen ratio remains far below the United Nations-recommended standard of 1 officer to 400 citizens making it extremely tedious for the NPF to carry out its core and other secondary responsibilities as enshrined in the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999, as amended. This deficit has severely hampered the Force’s ability to tackle insecurity effectively. However, the recruitment process itself has over the years been plagued by controversies, particularly disputes between the Police Service Commission (PSC) and the NPF, inefficiencies, and delays in the onboarding of recruits.

    At the core of the recruitment crisis lies a protracted conflict between the Police Service Commission and the NPF over who holds the constitutional authority to conduct recruitment exercises. While the Constitution empowers the PSC to handle appointments and promotions, the NPF argued that operational realities necessitate its direct involvement in the process. These disagreements escalated into seeking the intervention of the court as regards the interpretation of the Schedule defining the powers of the PSC and the Police Service Commission Act in 2023. The Supreme Court of Nigeria in its ruling, however, ruled in favour of the PSC, but tensions persist, continuing to hinder positive progress in resolving the manpower deficit. 

    Amid these lingering challenges, the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun Ph.D, NPM, has emerged as a transformative leader. As a fellow of the Society for Peace Studies and Practice (SPSP) coupled with his vast experiences in policing for more than three decades, Egbetokun has leveraged his conflict management expertise to foster understanding, collaboration and mutual existence with the PSC for the benefit of the NPF. By building a working relationship with the PSC chairman, DIG Hashimu Salihu Argungu, mni, retired, a thorough-bred, seasoned, and disciplined officer, and encouraging dialogue, he has reduced institutional friction, disequilibrium, and created a solid template for cooperation with the shared goal of addressing recruitment challenges, and other inadequacies effectively. 

    Egbetokun has advocated for a recruitment process that emphasizes professionalism, merit, and inclusivity. The IGP, in collaboration with the decent Chairman of the PSC, champions fairness and transparency to combat corruption and nepotism which have plagued the system for years. His focus extends beyond numbers, with an emphasis on robust training programs aimed at equipping recruits with modern policing techniques, community engagement skills, and conflict resolution strategies. He is also advocating for the adoption of digital technologies to streamline the recruitment process and enhance efficiency. 

    Read Also: Why Egbetokun isn’t illegal IG, by AGF Fagbemi

    Egbetokun’s leadership approach demonstrates the power of collaboration, doggedness, accountability, and proactive engagement in addressing systemic and institutional challenges. By fostering trust, mediating institutional conflicts, and implementing forward-looking reforms, he is building a Police Force that is not only numerically stronger but also more professional, rule-of-law compliant, service-driven, people-friendly, and community-oriented. His ability to unite stakeholders around a common vision offers hope for a more effective and united police force, capable of ensuring national security and institutional excellence.

    IGP Adeolu Egbetokun’s leadership serves as a model for addressing systemic challenges through conflict management and collaboration.

    As Nigeria continues to navigate its surmountable security challenges, the combination of Egbetokun’s conflict management prowess and his partnership with the PSC leadership provides a renewed focus toward a more effective and united police force. Through their joint efforts, the recruitment process can be transformed into a vehicle for institutional excellence and national security. 

    In the end, IGP Adeolu Egbetokun’s leadership reminds us that sustainable reform is only possible through dialogue, cooperation, and a shared commitment to achieving greater heights. His approach is a testament to the power of effective leadership and Esprit de Corps in driving meaningful change.

    •Omooba Adejobi is a Public Relations Practitioner and Expert in Peace, Security, and Humanitarian Studies. Federal Capital Territory, Abuja

    princemoye@gmail.com.

  • CSO, Afenifere youths fault Sowore’s comments on IGP Egbetokun

    CSO, Afenifere youths fault Sowore’s comments on IGP Egbetokun

    A Civil Society Organization (CSO), Concerned Citizens for Justice and Rule of Law, has condemned what it described as baseless and malicious attacks against the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, by the 2023 presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC), Omoyele Sowore.

    Speaking at a news conference on Friday in Abuja, the CSO stated that Sowore was attempting to undermine the security apparatus of the nation.

    The spokesperson for the group, Comrade Kabir Matazu, applauded the efforts of the police chief in ensuring national security and tackling crime across Nigeria.

    He noted that the IGP had ushered in a new era of professionalism and effectiveness in the Nigeria Police Force. 

    He said unlike others who blow their own trumpets at the slightest achievement, Egbetokun had quietly and meticulously implemented strategic reforms that have significantly curbed crime.

    Matazu added: “Apparently, his leadership has witnessed a marked reduction in violent crimes, including kidnappings, armed robbery, and terrorism-related incidents. Furthermore, community policing initiatives, which he has broadly enacted, have helped strengthen trust between the police and citizens, ensuring better cooperation in intelligence gathering.”

    He emphasized that despite these achievements, the IGP had chosen modesty over self-glorification, describing this as “a rare trait and a mark of a true leader—one driven by duty rather than personal acclaim.”

    Matazu alleged that “Sowore’s unwarranted attacks on the IGP are part of a well-orchestrated distraction campaign aimed at diverting attention from the tremendous progress being made in ensuring national security.”

    Matazu claimed that those benefiting from insecurity in Nigeria viewed the IGP’s success as a threat.

    The CSO noted that, unlike those who abuse power and resort to intimidation, IGP Egbetokun had displayed an exceptional level of civility by choosing to address Sowore’s allegations through legal means.

    He continued, “Rather than using the might of the police force to silence him, the IGP chose to seek redress in a court of law, reaffirming his commitment to justice and democratic principles.”

    According to Matazu, “This should serve as a lesson to Sowore and his cohorts that Nigeria is not a jungle where lawlessness reigns. If one has grievances, the proper avenue is the judiciary, not cheap propaganda and media blackmail.”

    Matazu urged the IGP not to lose focus and to continue his work in restoring law and order. He praised the police for achieving “remarkable feats in intelligence-driven policing, community engagement, and high-profile criminal arrests.”

    He reaffirmed the group’s full support for IGP Egbetokun in his quest to ensure security, law, and order in Nigeria. 

    He encouraged him to stay focused on securing the country, as “the law is on his side, and justice will always prevail over propaganda.”

    Meanwhile, the Afenifere Youth Coalition also condemned what it described as Sowore’s continued and unwarranted attacks on prominent Yoruba public office holders, including IGP Egbetokun.

    At a press conference on Friday, the coalition accused the publisher of Sahara Reporters of building a career around harassing, defaming, and undermining public officials. They insisted that it was time to set the record straight.

    The group stated, “Recently, he posted self-indicting video evidence of himself resisting and obstructing public officers from doing their job, disobeying lawful orders, cyberstalking, and attempting to prevent arrests.”

    They further alleged that Sowore’s attack on the IGP was “not just a random act of provocation but part of his larger agenda to destabilize the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.”

    Describing this as unacceptable, the group asserted, “As Yoruba youths committed to the peace and progress of our land, we refuse to sit idly by while such reckless behavior continues unchecked.”

    The coalition commended IGP Egbetokun for choosing to handle Sowore’s case through legal means rather than resorting to abuse of power.

    Read Also: Why Egbetokun isn’t illegal IG, by AGF Fagbemi

    They emphasized that “the judiciary must ensure justice is served so that this case sets a precedent that online defamation, cyberbullying, and targeted harassment will no longer be tolerated.”

    They challenged Sowore to provide evidence of his platform’s constructive contributions to governance in Nigeria.

    They commended IGP Egbetokun for his patience, professionalism, and adherence to due process in handling Sowore’s defamation case. 

    Unlike others who might have resorted to abuse of power, they said, “the police chief chose the lawful route by seeking redress in court.” 

  • Why Egbetokun isn’t illegal IG, by AGF Fagbemi

    Why Egbetokun isn’t illegal IG, by AGF Fagbemi

    • Alleged cybercrime: Court admits Sowore to N10m bail

    The Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) and Justice Minister Lateef Fagbemi (SAN) has said the continuous stay in office of Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun “is legal and lawful”.

    In a statement last night by his office, Fagbemi said the appointment of Egbetokun, which took effect from October 31, 2023, would have ended on his attainment of 60 years of age on September 4, 2024.

    The statement added: “However, before his retirement age, the Police Act was amended to allow the occupant of the office to remain and complete the original four-year term granted under Section 7 (6) of the Act, notwithstanding the fact that he has attained the age of 60 years.

    “This has, therefore, statutorily extended the tenure of office of Egbetokun to and including October 31, 2027 in order to complete the four-year tenure granted to him.

    “For the avoidance of doubt, Egbetokun’s continuous stay in office is in line with the provisions of the Police Act, amended in 2024, which allow the occupant of the office to enjoy a term of four years effective from the date of his appointment as IGP, in this case, October 31, 2023.

    Read Also: Police charge Sowore with calling Egbetokun ‘illegal IG’

    “This advisory is necessary for the guidance of the general public.”

    Fagbemi’s explanation might have been informed by the ripples the arrest of activist-politician and Sahara Reporters publisher, Omoyele Sowore, had caused.

    Sowore, the 2023 presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC), had been arrested and charged to court for alleged cybercrime bordering on calling Egbetokun an illegal IG.

    Also, a Federal High Court in Abuja yesterday admitted Sowore to bail in the sum of N10 million with one surety in the like sum.

    Justice Musa Liman, in a ruling on Sowore’s bail application moved by his lawyer, Marshall Abubakar, held that the surety must be a responsible citizen with a landed property within the jurisdiction of the court.

  • Oyetola, Egbetokun, Obi, Aremu, others celebrate Amitolu at 60

    Oyetola, Egbetokun, Obi, Aremu, others celebrate Amitolu at 60

    Osogbo, the Osun State capital played host to a remarkable celebration recently as Nigerians from all walks of life gathered to honour Comrade Amitolu Shittu, a renowned human rights activist, on his 60th birthday. The event was not only a birthday celebration but also a moment to reflect on Amitolu’s decades-long commitment to justice, equality and the betterment of Nigerian society. Six books authored by the celebrant were launched during the event, providing a fitting tribute to his life’s work and unyielding dedication to activism. Among the dignitaries who attended the event were the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola; Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun; Labour Party Presidential Candidate in the 2023 elections Peter Obi; and prominent human rights advocate, Comrade Isa Aremu. These esteemed individuals hailed Amitolu for his courage, selflessness and contributions to Nigeria’s democratic ideals.

    Held at the Adolak Event Centre in Osogbo, the event saw heartfelt speeches and tributes from leaders across political and civil society sectors, all of whom celebrated Amitolu as a beacon of integrity, activism and advocacy for the oppressed. Representing Oyetola, Bola Oyebamiji, Managing Director/CEO of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), described Amitolu as a man whose life and work embodied the highest ideals of integrity, honesty and dignity. He emphasised that Amitolu’s activism had consistently championed the causes of the downtrodden, making him a towering figure in the fight for human rights.

    “Comrade Amitolu Shittu’s journey as an activist is defined by his unyielding commitment to truth and justice,” Oyebamiji said. “His life and work are a living testament to the impact of integrity in the pursuit of a fairer, more just society.”

    Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, who was represented by Osun State Commissioner of Police, CP Muhammed Abbah, commended Amitolu for his tireless defence of the people. He highlighted the celebrant’s resilience in fighting against injustice, even when facing personal challenges. “Amitolu’s dedication to the defence of human rights and justice has been unwavering,” said Egbetokun. “He deserves every recognition for his remarkable efforts in safeguarding the rights of Nigerians.”

    Comrade Isa Aremu, former Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), also lauded Amitolu’s relentless work for democracy, good governance and an egalitarian society. He reflected on Amitolu’s profound impact on Nigeria’s socio-political landscape, noting that his commitment to justice had earned him the respect of many across the country. “At 60, Comrade Amitolu has established an indelible legacy, particularly in the fight for democracy and social justice in Nigeria,” Aremu stated. “His unwavering belief in an inclusive, just society remains a guiding light for us all.”

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    Peter Obi, represented by Comrade Yunusa Tanko, Coordinator of the Obidient Movement, spoke of Amitolu’s patriotism and nationalist spirit, emphasising his dedication to the unity and progress of Nigeria. Obi praised Amitolu’s character, humility and selflessness, noting that these qualities had earned him the admiration of people from all walks of life. “Comrade Amitolu is an embodiment of selflessness, courage and integrity,” Obi’s representative said. “His life’s work has been centred on the advancement of Nigeria and the well-being of its people, regardless of their ethnicity or background.”

    Other attendees, including APC chieftain Chief Shuaibu Oyedokun, Executive Director of Marine and Operations at the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) Lekan Badmus, former Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Adebayo Adeleke, and Aare Musulumi of Osogbo, Alhaji Gani Adekunle, all shared similar sentiments, highlighting Amitolu’s virtuous character and unwavering dedication to societal progress.

    As part of the celebration, six of Amitolu’s books were launched, each one offering a glimpse into his life’s work, struggles and commitment to human rights and justice. These books stand as a testament to his lifelong dedication to making Nigeria a better place for all its citizens. The event, filled with reflections and acknowledgments of Amitolu’s exceptional contributions, served as a reminder of his continued relevance in the fight for justice and equality in Nigeria. At 60, Comrade Shittu remains a towering figure in the ongoing struggle for a fairer, more just society.

  • Probe into man who died in custody

    Probe into man who died in custody

    The Inspector-General of Police, (IGP), Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, has directed the Force Criminal Investigations Department (FCID) to take over the investigation into the death of Jimoh Abdulquadri, who died in police detention in Kwara State last Friday.

     In a show of commitment to justice and accountability, the IGP visited Kwara State yesterday, where he met with the bereaved family.

    The IGP was received by the Balogun Fulani of Ilorin, Alhaji Sadiq Atiku Fulani, who spoke on behalf of the family.

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     The IGP expressed his condolences and assured the family that matter will be resolved.

     In a statement, Force spokes man,  Olumuyiwa Adejobi said: “The IGP has ordered FCID to handle the case and ensure an impartial investigation…”

  • IG Egbetokun seeks sustained public support for effective policing

    IG Egbetokun seeks sustained public support for effective policing

    Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun has called for sustained communal support to ensure effective policing and tackling of Nigeria’s insecurity challenges.

    Dr. Egbetokun spoke at the inauguration and handover ceremony of a fully equipped ultra-modern Ogbona Divisional Police headquarters and an Information and Communications Technology (ICT) security command and control centre in Estako Central Local Government Area of Edo State.

    The facility was built and equipped by the Ogbona Youth Forum (OYF) in collaboration with a frontline indigene of the community, Mr. Peter Omoh Dunia (aka Peter Black).

    The IGP was represented by the Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) in charge of Zone 5, Benin, Arungwa Nwaziue Udo, at the event where a police patrol vehicle and four motorcycles were presented to the Nigeria Police by Ogbona community.

    Describing the event as “epoch making”, Dr. Egbetokun reiterated “the imperative of community collaboration to guarantee peaceful coexistence of our nationals”.

    He added: “We are living in a modern world and hi-tech policing is inevitable these days. This plays a pivotal role in the tracking and monitoring of people that have criminal intentions.

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    “We (police) cannot be everywhere at the same time, hence we need the public sustained support. Policing is everybody’s business and communal efforts in this regard will not go in vain.”

    Dunia, who is the Executive Director of Inter-Atlas Synergy Limited, a Niger Delta-based oil and gas industrial security and project management company, urged the police to embrace ICT in their security surveillance and other anti-crime operations in order to meet the challenges of modern community policing.

    The company chief executive emphasised the need for Public Private Partnership (PPP) to ensure the success of the ongoing campaign against insecurity in the country and to effectively combat crimes and criminalities at the local level.

  • IGP Egbetokun seeks sustained public support for effective policing

    IGP Egbetokun seeks sustained public support for effective policing

    The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Dr. Kayode Egbetokun has emphasised the need for sustained communal support to ensure effective policing and tackling of Nigeria’s insecurity challenges.

    Egbetokun spoke at the official commissioning and handover ceremony of a fully equipped ultra-modern Ogbona Divisional Police headquarters and a state-of-the-art Information and Communications Technology (ICT) security command and control Centre, in Estako Central council area, Edo state, built and equipped by the Ogbona Youth Forum (OYF) in collaboration with a frontline indigene of the community, Mr. Peter Omoh Dunia a.k.a. Peter Black.

    The IGP was represented by the Assistant Inspector General of Police, Zone 5 Benin, AIG Arungwa Nwaziue Udo.

    A police patrol vehicle and four motorcycles were also presented to the Nigeria Police by Ogbona community at the occasion.

    Describing the Ogbona event as “epoch making”, the IGP stated that the police is currently sustaining its service delivery, reiterating “the imperative of community collaboration to guarantee peaceful coexistence of our nationals”.

    “We are living in a modern world and high-tech policing is inevitable these days. This plays pivotal role in tracking and monitoring of people that have criminal intentions. We (Police) cannot be everywhere at the same time, hence we need the public sustained support. Policing is everybody’s business and communal efforts in this regard will not go in vain,” the Police boss said.

    In his address, Mr. Dunia, the Executive Director of Inter-Atlas Synergy Ltd., a Niger Delta based oil and gas industrial security and project management company, urged the Nigeria Police to embrace lnformation and Communications Technology (ICT) in their security surveillance and other anti-crime operations in order to meet the challenges of modern day community policing.

    Dunia emphasized the need of Public Private Partnership (PPP) to ensure the success of the ongoing campaign against insecurity in the country and to effectively combat crimes and criminalities at the local level.

    Read Also: Police knocks Amnesty International’s report on endbadgovernance protest

    According to him, “The decision to embark on this project was borne out of a deep conviction: the belief that security is the bedrock of development. Without peace and safety, no society can thrive, businesses cannot flourish and families cannot prosper. For too long, our community has grappled with the challenges of inadequate security infrastructure and so we felt compelled to act in a way that would bring lasting change.

    “To us, this new Divisional Police Station is more than just a building; it is a symbol of hope, unity and progress. It is equipped with modern facilities that will enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of our Police Force in safeguarding lives and property. I am confident that it will serve as a beacon of security not just for Ogbona, but for neighbouring communities as well.

    “To my fellow community members, I implore you to take ownership of this facility. Support the officers, report incidents promptly, and work hand-in-hand to create an environment where everyone feels safe and protected. Security is a collective responsibility, and together we can achieve remarkable results”.

    Speaking in the same vein, the National President of Ogbona Youth Forum (OYF), Mr. Paulinus Eleta, expressed optimism that security in Edo North would improve with the establishment of the project, especially in the area of curbing kidnapping and other associated crimes.

    He posited that OYF, as the premier youth organisation in Ogbona community, is “committed to bridging the obvious gap that existed in the areas of human and physical development in our community”.

    On his part, Chief Dan Orbih, the Chairman, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), South South region who presided over the event advocated “strong collaboration between the society with the Nigeria Police in security and peace building to positively change the present negative trends in the country”.

    Part of the ceremony was a mini ground breaking ceremony of another project, a skill acquisition centre where both indigenes and non indigenous youths of Ogbona community can benefit to improve human capital development and a better life.