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Tag: IGP

  • Akpabio petitions IGP over assassination allegation by Senator Natasha

    Akpabio petitions IGP over assassination allegation by Senator Natasha

    Senate President Godswill Akpabio has petitioned the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, demanding an investigation into the assassination allegations leveled against him by suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.

    In the petition dated April 3, 2025, Akpabio denied the claims made by the Kogi Central Senator during a Sallah address on April 1 in her hometown of Obeiba-Ijioma, Okehi local government area of Kogi state.

    Akpoti-Uduaghan had accused Akpabio of allegedly directing former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello and the incumbent Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, to assassinate her and frame her constituents for the act.

    Describing the claims as “heinous lies” and a “reckless and deliberate attempt” to tarnish his reputation, Akpabio urged the police to probe the matter thoroughly. 

    He also forwarded the petition to the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, seeking Akpoti-Uduaghan’s prosecution for criminal defamation.

    Akpabio further described the allegations as politically motivated and aimed at inciting unrest and damaging his public image.

    Akpabio said: “I write to formally bring to your attention and seek immediate investigation and prosecution of a criminally defamatory and malicious statement made against me by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, a suspended member of the Nigerian Senate on the 1st of April, 2025 and which was widely publicised on radio stations, televisions and newspapers, including the social media.

    “In the public outburst at Kogi State while addressing her audience, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan falsely alleged that I instructed the former Governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, to ‘assassinate her in Kogi State instead of Abuja’ with the intent of making it appear that her constituents were responsible for her death.”

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    “This statement is not only a heinous lie but a reckless and deliberate attempt to damage my reputation, endanger my life and security, and incite political unrest.”

    The Senate President noted that the allegation was made without any supporting evidence, adding that the widespread media coverage it received, further exacerbated the impact of the false claim.

    He said: “The severity of this false allegation, and the fact that it has gained public traction, makes it necessary that law enforcement agencies treat it with the urgency it deserves.”

    He called for a thorough investigation and prosecution of Akpoti-Uduaghan under the relevant provisions of the law.

  • Inclusive policing paramount – IGP 

    Inclusive policing paramount – IGP 

    Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun on Saturday called for an inclusive policing in the country. 

    Egbetokun said this when Police Officers in all 36 State Commands across the nation and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) engaged in a grand walkathon to promote community engagement and raise awareness for the Maiden National Police Day grand finale coming up on the 7th of April 2025. 

    The nationwide walkathon, which commenced in the morning saw participation from officers of all ranks, as well as members of the public. 

    The event was aimed to foster stronger relationships between the police and the communities, promoting cohesion and mutual understanding.

    Read Also: IGP urges youths to shun crime

    A statement by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi reads: “Furthermore, in continuation of preparations for the grand finale of the National Police Day celebration, the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, today inspected parade rehearsals, exhibitions, amongst other activities at the Eagle Square, Abuja.

    “The IGP expressed satisfaction with the level of preparedness, emphasizing the importance of a well-coordinated and impactful event to celebrate the gallantry and achievements of the Nigeria Police Force .

    “The IGP encourages all citizens to celebrate the Nigeria Police Force by actively participating in National Police Day events and show their support for the men and women who serve and protect our communities”.

  • IGP’s order on unlawful detentions will curb human rights abuses – SPANCI

    IGP’s order on unlawful detentions will curb human rights abuses – SPANCI

    A human rights organization, Save the Poor and Needy Charity Initiative (SPANCI), has commended the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, for his directive warning officers against unlawful and prolonged detentions, describing it as a necessary step to curb human rights abuses by policemen nationwide.

    SPANCI made this known in a statement signed by its President, Comrade Yemi Ezekiel Bello, and released to journalists on Monday in Ibadan, Oyo State.

    The IGP’s order, issued in a statement signed by the Force Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, on Sunday, emphasized that any officer found violating citizens’ constitutional rights would face serious consequences.

    Reacting to the directive, Bello noted that the issue of unlawful detentions has led to the unjust killing of innocent Nigerians and the wrongful imprisonment of citizens accused of crimes they did not commit.

    He expressed optimism that the IGP’s warning would help reduce police misconduct and foster greater respect for human rights within the force.

    While applauding Egbetokun’s stance, Bello urged police officers to uphold the fundamental human rights of citizens, stressing that unlawful detentions have contributed to widespread public distrust of the police.

    He added that it will be a good thing if the police officers across the country can comply with the IGP ‘s order. 

    He maintained that this will redeem the image of the Nigerian police force tainted by the unprofessional conduct of some officers.

    He said, “IGP through the force PRO frankly told the Police officers to respect the fundamental human rights of the citizens while carrying out their duties even on pre-trial detention and that they should respect the rights to dignity of human persons and personal liberty of the citizens as enshrined in section 34 and 35 of the Nigeria 1999 constitution as amended. 

    Read Also: IGP warn officers against unlawful detention

    “He also warned against violating these fundamental rights and clearly said there would be punishment for erring officers. We need to say clearly that the IGP deserves appreciation. Since his resumption to office he has been speaking of the defence of the human rights of the citizens though alot of violations has happened by some of his officers. 

    “If we went against violation of fundamental human rights by the police we should also appreciate the IGP ‘s efforts in the re – orientation of the officers and his continuous affirmations on respecting the fundamental human rights of the citizens as disregard of this has killed some innocent citizens and others has been unlawfully punished for offences not committed. 

    “Some officers are so power drunk and usual abusers of office which is against their rules of engagement as stipulated in the police act 2020 as amended and code of conduct for professional officers. It will be a good thing if the police can comply with the IGP ‘s order and the rules of engagement as this will redeem the image of the Nigerian police force tainted by the unprofessional conduct of some officers.

    “Once again SPANCI appreciates IGP Egbetokun on his speech to his officers to respect the fundamental human rights of the citizens. May God help him to succeed in his duty.”

  • Family seeks IGP’s intervention to rescue kidnapped retired director in Delta

    Family seeks IGP’s intervention to rescue kidnapped retired director in Delta

    The family of a kidnapped retired director of the Post-Primary Education Board (PPEB), Mr. Emmanuel Ofobrukueta, has called on the Inspector General of Police (IGP) to urgently intervene and ensure his safe rescue from the den of his abductors.

    In a letter to the IGP by their solicitor, Frank Tietie, of Forthright Chambers, the family expressed distress over Ofobrukueta’s prolonged captivity, stating that despite efforts by the Delta State Police Command, he remains in the hands of his kidnappers more than two months after his abduction.

    Addressing reporters on behalf of the family in Abuja, Tietie worried that that victim seems to have been forgotten hence the need to beg the IGP to directly take interest in the matter.

    According to the letter, Mr. Ofobrukueta, who retired six years ago, was seized by armed men on January 12, 2025, right in front of his residence in Mosogar, near Sapele in Delta State. 

    The abduction occurred a day before he was scheduled to travel to Asaba to process and collect his pension payments.

    The family feared that a coordinated network of close associates, ransom handlers and the actual kidnappers might be deliberately prolonging his captivity. 

    Their concerns, according to them, stem from suspicious developments surrounding the ransom payment, which was reportedly made just two days after his abduction.

    The family claimed intelligence from a private tracking company also points to the involvement of persons close to the victim.

    “The Delta State Police Command appears to be overwhelmed by the kidnappers’ tactics in this case,” the letter stated, urging the IGP to take special action to unravel the abduction and secure Mr. Ofobrukueta’s release.

    The family’s appeal was described as an “SOS call” in the letter, underscoring the urgency of the situation and the growing fear for the victim’s safety. They expressed hope that the Nigeria Police Force, under the leadership of the IGP, would intervene decisively to bring the ordeal to an end.

    Tietie said the family is now counting on the direct intervention of the IGP to dismantle any criminal network responsible for the abduction and ensure justice is served.

    “The case should be escalated and given the appropriate attention it requires. We think that he would be rescued if the police in Delta State deployed sufficient resources in terms of manpower and tracking his movements. 

    “Our frustration is that they seem to have abandoned the case. That is why we are appealing. The fact that ransome has been paid through someone when it was demanded this was an ample opportunity to bust the kidnap gang,” he said.

    The lawyer said the victim does not deserve to be abandoned to his fate having served the country meritoriously.

    He said the need to address the growing problem of kidnapping as he worried that when victims are not politically exposed persons or prominent in society, their cases do not often get expeditious treatment.

  • NAOSS, NANS urge IGP to take over probe of Ogun student’s murder

    NAOSS, NANS urge IGP to take over probe of Ogun student’s murder

    The National Association of Ogun State Students (NAOSS), the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), and the Inter-Campus and Gender Affairs body have called on the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, to take over the investigation into the brutal murder of Comrade Quadri Adedamola Ogunbode, a fresh graduate of Lagos State University (LASU), Ojo. 

    During a joint press briefing at the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) Secretariat in Abeokuta, Ogun State, on Thursday, NAOSS National President Kehinde Thomas and NANS Vice President (Inter-Campus and Gender Affairs) Akinbodunse Sileola Felicia raised concerns over alleged police complicity in the case. They stated that the call for the IGP’s intervention became necessary following reports that two suspects linked to Ogunbode’s murder had escaped to the Republic of Benin. 

    Thomas emphasised the urgency of the investigation, urging the IGP to ensure justice is served and that all suspects are brought to book. He stressed that Ogunbode’s case must not become another unresolved murder in Nigeria. 

    He further criticized the Lagos State Police Command’s handling of the case, describing it as lackluster. He alleged that the police’s approach led to the disappearance of Ogunbode on February 17, 2025, prompting NAOSS and NANS members to block the Ogun State corridor of the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway earlier in the week to protest the poor handling of the investigation.

    Thomas said, “It was the police’s hanky-panky game that necessitated our blocking of the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway on Monday to call the attention of the IGP to the matter.

    “But we were shocked to learn through the spokesperson of the Lagos State Police Command that two suspects planned to be apprehended have escaped to the neighbouring Republic of Benin.

    Read Also: NANS, NAOSS to Abiodun: Appoint Education Commissioner within 21 days

    “We view this as absurd and unacceptable. Could those suspects have been tipped off, hence, their fleeing? To us, this case is a clear case of murder. And we believe that since the police arrested the main suspect and Church Shepherd, swift investigations should have led to the arrest of the fleeing suspects.

    “However, our findings revealed that a maternal aunt of the main suspect in Quadri’s murder is a senior police officer. As student leaders, we shall resist any attempt by the said aunt to wield her influence to tamper with the investigation, thereby exonerating her nephew.

    “Quadri was a hardworking guy who combined his education at LASU with entrepreneurship. He was a bright star every family member was hoping for. His death has not only thrown melancholy into his family but it has also taken a serious psychological toll on his mum, who cries her heart out every day.

    “We say a big No to any police complicity in the matter! No matter how connected or influential they are, everybody culpable in the case should be made to face the music.”

  • Major shakeup as IGP orders posting of seven AIGs, eighteen CPs

    Major shakeup as IGP orders posting of seven AIGs, eighteen CPs

    The Inspector-General of Police, (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun has ordered the immediate posting of 7 Assistant Inspectors-General of Police (AIGs) to various strategic offices.

    Egbetokun also directed the posting of 18 Commissioners of Police (CPs) due for AIG ranks, pending the approval from the Police Service Commission (PSC), to AIG offices nationwide.

    The IGP said the comprehensive redeployment of senior officers is geared at effectively repositioning the force with a view to discharging its duties as expected. 

    The newly posted AIGs include AIG Margaret Ochalla, now heading AIG, Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID), Annex, Lagos; AIG Abayomi Peter Oladipo, assigned to AIG Zone 13, Ukpo; AIG Fred Ekokotu, who will oversee AIG Zone 11, Osogbo; AIG Iwo Nemi Edwin Osigboka, now in charge of AIG Border Patrol Force, Force Headquarters, Abuja.

    Others are AIG Garba Ahmed, taking on the role of AIG Department of Training and Development (DTD), Force Headquarters, Abuja; AIG Salman Dogo, assigned to AIG Zone 5, Benin; and AIG Kanayo Uzuegbu, now in charge of AIG Zone 9, Umuahia. 

    According to the statement by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, concurrently, 18 CPs acting in the capacity of AIGs, pending the approval of the Police Service Commission (PSC), have also been posted to various strategic offices.

    Adejobi said: “CP Patrick Adedeji Atayero has been posted to Commandant, Police Academy, Kano; CP Tolani Alausa to AIG Zone 16, Yenagoa; CP Musibau Ajani to AIG Zone 17, Akure; CP Mobolaji Victor Olaiya to AIG DICT, Force Headquarters, Abuja; CP Laolu Adegbite, to AIG Interpol, Force Headquarters, Abuja; CP Clement Robert to AIG Community Policing, Research & Planning, Force Headquarters, Abuja; CP Gyongon Augustine Grimah to AIG Zone 10, Sokoto; CP Thomas Abraham Nabhon to AIG ONSA; CP Musa Auwal Mohammed to AIG Zone 3, Yola; CP Mohammed Shehu Dalijan to AIG CTU, Force Headquarters, Abuja.

    “CP Olatunji Disu to AIG Special Protection Unit (SPU), Force Headquarters, Abuja; CP Abubakar Sadiq Aliyu to AIG Zone 12, Bauchi; CP Fasuba Akinyele to AIG Investment, Force Headquarters, Abuja; CP Musa Kareem to AIG Force Headquarters Annex, Lagos; CP Chukwudi Chris Ariekpere to AIG FCID Annex, Enugu; CP Aliyu Abubakar Musa to AIG Zone 14, Katsina; CP Godwin I. Eze to AIG DFA, Force Headquarters, Abuja; and CP Abel J. Zwalchir Miri to AIG Communications, Force Headquarters, Abuja”.

    The Force spokesman said the IGP has charged all officers affected by the strategic postings to embrace their new responsibilities with utmost dedication and justify their confidence through exemplary service.

    He said the IGP urged the new senior officers to ensure strict supervision and diligence in the discharge of their lawful duties and further encouraged them to key into the ongoing police reform.

    Adejobi said: “These deployments are integral to the ongoing revitalization of the Nigeria Police Force, and the IGP is confident that they will contribute significantly to enhanced security and improved service delivery across the nation”.

  • IGP reiterates ban on police public parade of suspects

    IGP reiterates ban on police public parade of suspects

    The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun on Tuesday reiterated the ban on the public parade of suspects by the operatives of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF).

    According to a statement issued by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi: “this commitment by the IGP aims to uphold the fundamental human rights of every citizen and adhere to global best practices in policing by reiterating the standing directive prohibiting the public parade of criminal suspects before formal charges are filed in a court of law”.

    Adejobi explained that the directive, previously communicated to all commands and zones within the Police Force: “is a cornerstone of the Nigeria Police Force’s modernization efforts and reflects its dedication to respecting the fundamental rights of all individuals, including those suspected of criminal activity”.

    Read Also: IGP to new Force Management Team: align with FG’s agenda

    He further said the IGP emphasized that this policy was aligned with international human rights standards, which prioritize the protection and preservation of the dignity and rights of individuals throughout the judicial process.

    The police spokesman reaffirmed that the Nigeria Police Force: “is committed to operating within the bounds of the law and promoting a culture of respect for human rights among its personnel.

    “The IGP seeks the understanding and cooperation of the public, particularly members of the media, in adhering to this directive”.

    He pointed out that responsible reporting and adherence to ethical journalistic practices were vital in maintaining public trust and ensuring a fair and impartial justice system that respects the rights and dignity of all individuals.

  • IGP to new Force Management Team: align with FG’s agenda

    IGP to new Force Management Team: align with FG’s agenda

    … Egbetokun inaugurates restructured FMT

    The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun on Monday advised the Force Management Team (FMT), to align with the vision and operations of the Nigeria Police Force and the Federal Government’s agenda.

    Egbetokun gave the advice while inaugurating the newly restructured FMT following the appointment of six new Deputy Inspectors-General of Police (DIGs) to ensure the smooth and effective administration of the Nigeria Police Force.

    A statement issued by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi: “The IGP charged the FMT with aligning the vision and operations of the Nigeria Police Force with the Federal Government’s agenda, reiterating his vision for a professionally competent, service-driven, and people-friendly Police Force, well-positioned to address contemporary crime. The FMT’s efforts will focus on the reorganization and specialization of the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID) and other investigative units. 

    Read Also: IGP reshuffles police leadership, deploys six DIGs, one AIG

    “To that end, The IGP has directed the update of the Force criminal database. Furthermore, The IGP directed the Department of Research and Planning (R&P) to collaborate closely with the FID and the Department of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) to ensure the database is able to aid investigations and enhance policing strategies.

    “The IGP emphasized equipping these units with the latest technologies, training at all levels, and resources to enhance their investigative capacity, ensuring justice is served while upholding decency, professionalism, and respect for human rights. The establishment of the new Force Management Team is a significant step forward, fostering collaboration and innovation to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the Nigeria Police Force and contribute to the overall safety and security of Nigeria”.

  • IGP vows Force gender policy implementation

    IGP vows Force gender policy implementation

    The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has reaffirmed unwavering commitment to promoting equality and fostering a more inclusive environment within the Nigeria Police Force. 

    Egbetokun said the Force is committed to implementing policies and programs that promote gender equality and address gender-based discrimination within the Force. 

    A statement on Saturday by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi said: “The Inspector-General of Police, (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun, extends his warmest felicitations to all women around the world as the world celebrates this year’s International Women’s Day on March 8th 2025. 

    “The IGP particularly recognizes and deeply appreciates the invaluable contributions of policewomen to the safety, security, and overall effectiveness of the Nigeria Police Force.

    Read Also: IGP decorates six newly appointed DIGs, one AIG

    “The IGP acknowledges and appreciates the unique skills, efforts, and dedication that women bring to policing, particularly that of the Force Gender Advisor, AIG Aishatu Abubakar Baju, who has played a major role in the establishment of the newly approved Force Gender Policy documents, and pledges commitment to its implementation.

    “This is in furtherance of the commitment of the present Police leadership to implementing policies and programs that promote gender equality and address gender-based discrimination within the Force. As part of this policy, the implementation will also feature an increased female representation in vital roles by actively seeking qualified female officers for leadership positions, specialized units, and strategic roles.

    “The Nigeria Police Force recognizes that a diverse and inclusive workforce is a stronger and more effective workforce. The Force is committed to creating a workplace where every officer, regardless of gender, has the opportunity to reach their full potential”.

  • IGP decorates six newly appointed DIGs, one AIG

    IGP decorates six newly appointed DIGs, one AIG

    The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun on Thursday formally decorated six newly appointed Deputy Inspectors-General of Police (DIGs) and one Assistant Inspector-General of Police (AIG).

    The event also followed the retirement of six DIGs on March 3, 2025, after serving the force for 35 years.

    A statement issued by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi said: “The Nigeria Police Force marked a significant moment in its history with the formal decoration of six newly appointed Deputy Inspectors-General of Police (DIGs) and one Assistant Inspector-General of Police (AIG) by the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, today March 6th 2025. This event follows the recent retirement of six veteran DIGs on March 3rd, 2025, who honorably served the force for 35 years.

    “The newly appointed DIGs bring a wealth of experience and expertise from various commands and departments within the NPF. These iconic individuals include DIG Sadiq Idiris Abubakar, previously Commandant of the Police Academy in Wudil, Kano; DIG Benjamin Nebolisa Okolo, former AIG of the Department of Information Communication Technology at Force Headquarters Abuja; DIG Williams Adebowale, formerly Commandant of the Police Staff College Jos; DIG Bzigu Yakubu Kwazi Bali, former AIG of the FCID Annex Enugu; DIG Idegwu Basil Ukuoma, previously AIG of Zone 14, Katsina; and DIG Adebola Ayinde Hamzat, former AIG, Zone 16 Yenagoa.

    “In addition to these DIG appointments, AIG Kanayo Uzuegbu, who previously served as the Commissioner of Police for the Enugu State Command, was also decorated as the newly promoted Assistant Inspector-General of Police. During the ceremony, the IGP extended his heartfelt congratulations to the newly decorated officers and emphasized the importance of upholding the values of integrity, professionalism, and service that define the Nigeria Police Force.

    “The IGP further charged the officers with inspiring confidence both within the ranks of the Force and among the citizens they are sworn to protect and expressed strong belief in their ability to excel in their new leadership roles and contribute to the continued progress and effectiveness of the Nigeria Police Force”.