Tag: IGP

The Inspector-General (I-G) of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has amended a two-count charge earlier filed against Senator Andy Uba and Benjamin Etu over their alleged involvement in a N400 million fraud.

Uba was a former Special Assistant on Special Duties and Domestic Affairs to ex-President Olusegun Obasanjo and later a Senator representing Anambra South Senatorial District.

The prosecuting lawyer, M. L. Anthony, announced this development when the case was called on Wednesday before Justice Inyang Ekwo of the Federal High Court in Abuja.

Anthony did not explain the reason for the amendment. But it was noticed that while the earlier charge had three defendants – UBA, Crystal Uba and Etu – the amended one has only Uba and Etu as defendants.

Out of the two defendants, only Etu was in court on Wednesday and was instructed by Justice Ekwo to stand in the dock.

Anthony told the court that the prosecution had yet to serve the amended charge on the defendants.

He sought an adjournment to enable him to bring an application for leave for substituted service of the amended charge on Uba as was done in the service of the earlier charge.

Justice Ekwo granted the request and directed Etu’s lawyer, C. F. Odiniru, to allow the prosecution to serve the amended contract on his client immediately after the proceedings.

The judge adjourned till March 17 for the defendants’ arraignment.

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The charge, marked: FHC/ABJ/CR/538/2024 reads:

*That you Andy Uba, Benjamin Etu and Hajiya Fatima (now at large) sometimes in the year 2022 did conspire amongst yourselves to commit an offence to wit: obtaining by false pretences by making a presentation to George Uboh you have perfected way to an appointment of the Managing Directorship of NDDC Niger Delta Development Commission to any interested person who can afford the sum of N400,000,000 only, a presentation which you know is not true and thereby committed an offence contrary to section 8 and punishable under section 1 (3) of the Advance Fee Fraud and other Fraud Related offences Act, 2006.

*That you Andy Uba, Benjamin Etu and Hajiya Fatima (now at large) sometimes in the year 2022 did conspire amongst yourselves with intention to defraud did induced George Uboh by making a presentation to him that you have perfected way to give an appointment of the post of Managing Directorship of (NDDC) Niger Delta Development Commission to any interested person who can afford the sum of N400,000,000 only, a presentation which you know is not true, you collected the money and thereby committed an offence contrary to section 1 (2) and punishable under section 1 (3) of the Advance Fee Fraud and other Fraud Related offences Act, 2006.

It was learnt that the charge was informed by findings by police investigators, who acted on a petition by Uboh.

In the petition, Uboh claimed, among other things, to have been hoodwinked into parting with the N400m.

He said: “This petition is based on documentary and voice recording evidence; thus, the evidence is overwhelming and irrefutable.

“Andy Ubah stated unequivocally to me that he has perfected a way to give NDDC Managing Directorship to any candidate who brings N400 000,000, that if the appointment does not occur, he will refund the money.

“I nominated my sister, Honorable (Engr.) Doris Uboh, who by profession, is qualified to be NDDC MD.

“Andy Ubah provided two accounts and instructed a transfer of N200,000,000 each into the accounts.

“I instructed another sister of mine, Princess Engr. Ify Akanmode, who is a business partner and whose account I had some funds, to do the transfers.

“Till date, Andy Ubah has promised to pay and has not.”

The House of Representatives on Wednesday asked the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, to deploy additional security personnel to Edo state to assist in the fight against kidnapping and banditry in the state.

Adopting a motion of urgent public importance, sponsored by Marcus Onobun, the House also asked the police boss to in intensify intelligence gathering and surveillance operations in identified flashpoints within Edo State and beyond.

Leading the debate on the motion, he drew attention to section 14(2)(b) of the 1999 constitution which expressly provides that the security and welfare of the people shall be the primary purpose of Government.

He said that Edo state is the heartbeat of the nation and home to diverse ethnic nationalities from different parts of the country who settle, work, school, and engage in various socio-economic activities within the state.

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According to him, the heartbeat of the nation is losing its rhythmic pulse as the state has in recent times been clobbered by dire insecurity challenges, adding that available reports have it that over 32 persons have lost their lives in the state due to the activities of Marauders, popularly referred to as “killer herdsmen”.

He said: “The report alleged that two Indigenous individuals in Okpekpe community in Etsako East local government area of Edo state were gruesomely murdered on Monday, 24th February 2025, by suspected killer Herdsmen. Similarly, the report also alleged that no fewer than 28 persons were left dead after a violent clash between Cocoa Farmers and Ijaw Militants in Ovia southwest local government area of Edo state”.

He expressed concern over the series of bloodbaths in Edo state has created an atmosphere of uncertainty and fear among the people of the state, affecting the socio-economic lives of the people.

He said the government of Edo seemed to have been overwhelmed by the spate and frequency of these killings, hence the need for the Federal Government to lend a helping hand to the state to curb this ugly menace.  

The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has directed all commands of the Force to implement a comprehensive plan to reduce crime rates by 50 per cent in 2025.

He gave the directive at the 5th Edition of the Annual Conference and Retreat for Senior Police Officers in Abeokuta on Monday.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the programme is with the theme ‘Improving Nigeria’s Internal Security and Economic Prosperity Through Inclusive Policing.’

Over 1,000 senior police officers are attending the three-day conference, which runs from Feb. 24 to 26.

Egbetokun noted that the theme aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s security vision and reinforces the commitment to tackling insecurity.

“The theme highlights the President’s plan to build a professionally competent, intelligence-driven police force capable of addressing emerging threats proactively,” he said.

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According to him, intensified operations and cooperation with the military and other security agencies are yielding significant results in the fight against organised crime.

Also speaking, Chairman, Niger Delta Development Commission, Mr Chiedu Ebie, urged the Federal Government to conduct periodic evaluations and vetting of police officers.

“A regular and comprehensive health check, including psychiatric assessments, must not be overlooked,” he said.

He also commended the police for their efforts to improve security in the country.

“However, Nigerians do not always appreciate the police force enough.

“As it stands, only 370,000 officers are responsible for the security of over 230 million people,” he stressed.

He promised that the commission would support the police in all capacities.

A senior police officer, speaking anonymously to NAN, said many commands are implementing the directive to reduce crime by 50 per cent.

“This is why the country is witnessing a higher rate of prosecutions in the courts,” he said. (NAN) 

The Inspector-General of Police (I-G), Mr  Kayode Egbetokun, has warned against the misuse of police authority in civil disputes, particularly, matters of land ownership.

The Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, said this in a statement issued on Tuesday in Abuja.

Egbetokun said police officers had no jurisdiction over purely civil matters unless there was an underlying criminal element involved.

According to him, even in such cases, investigations must be overseen by the Commissioners of Police in charge of the state, who will be held accountable for the process and outcome.

The I-G also raised concerns over the unwarranted and unethical practice of transferring ongoing cases, and misusing of public office by certain officers and individuals.

Egbetokun said the practices, which undermine investigations and diminish public confidence in the force, would no longer be tolerated.

He said transparency, professionalism and accountability must remain the guiding principles of policing in the country.

“In line with this, all supervising officers and personnel, particularly those in investigative units, should handle cases with diligence and integrity.

“Any officer found engaging in indiscriminate transfers of case files or misusing their office will face strict disciplinary actions,” he said.

He said the recurring practice of transferring cases still under investigation between formations without authorisation had been deemed unacceptable.

Egbetokun  said such actions create unnecessary delays, impose undue burdens on parties involved and waste resources.

“Cases should be investigated within the jurisdiction where alleged offenses occurred unless expressly approved by his office,” he added.

Egbetokun condemned the filing of frivolous or malicious petitions aimed at harassment or intimidation and vowed to address the issue.

According to him, moving forward, all petitions submitted to the police must now include a declaration confirming their authenticity and genuineness.

He said the petition must clearly state that the complaint had not been submitted to any other law enforcement agency.

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The police boss said that if it had, it must have been withdrawn before involving the police.

“Petitioners found to have filed frivolous petitions will be made to face the appropriate sanctions for giving false information to the police,” he said.

Egbetokun urged the public to submit complaints and petitions directly to the appropriate Police Commands, Divisions, or Units rather than to the I-G’s office.

He said except in cases requiring review, appeal, or special intervention.

The I-G cautioned the public against framing civil disputes as criminal matters to manipulate police intervention.

(NAN)

The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) will on February 1 commence the enforcement of third party insurance nationwide. 

The enforcement is in line with the directive of the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun. 

The IGP said the initiative is to reinforce road safety measures and ensure that all vehicle owners comply with the stipulated insurance requirements to protect themselves and others on the road.

A statement on Friday by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi said: “In line with the directive of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, the Nigeria Police Force once again reiterates the enforcement of the Mandatory Third Party Insurance which will commence on February 1st, 2025. 

“The Nigeria Police Force cautions vehicle owners and operators against non-compliance with this essential regulation. Failure to possess valid Third Party Insurance will result in strict enforcement actions, including fines or penalties or both, as mandated by relevant extant laws. 

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“Effective February 1st, all vehicle owners nationwide are required to possess valid Third Party Insurance as they move about, and those without the Insurance, are advised to be insured quickly to avoid any sort of embarrassment. 

“The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, has directed all State Commissioners of Police to ensure due enforcement, as Police officers will be empowered to conduct checks and enforce penalties for non-compliance in line with relevant extant laws. 

“The Nigeria Police Force remains dedicated to enhancing road safety and protecting the lives of all citizens through the enforcement of traffic laws and regulations. Cooperation from members of the public in this crucial endeavor is much appreciated”.

The Inspector – General of Police (IGP) Olukayode Egbetokun has urged 454 newly passed out police constables to shun unprofessional conduct and lawlessness.

Egbetokun gave the advice at the passing out of the 2022 Batch of the Recruit Constables at Police Training School, Minna.

IGP was represented by the Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) in charge of Zone 7, Abuja, Benneth Igweh.

Out of 454 Police Constables 343 were drawn from Niger State and 111 from the FCT.

While addressing the recruit constables, the IGP posited that the successful completion of the recruit training and the Passing-Out-Parade, marks a significant milestone and a major step forward for the Federal Government, under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu.

According to a statement by the Police Public Relations Officer,

Zone 7 Headquarters, Abuja, Mustapha Abdulkadir: “This achievement demonstrates the government’s commitment to strengthening the Nigeria Police Force by addressing the longstanding manpower deficit. The President’s approval for the annual recruitment of 30,000 police constables over the next few years is expected to strengthen our internal security, enhance police performance, and promote optimal police service delivery nationwide.

“He however charged the graduating constables to note that the responsibility of policing requires the highest level of professionalism and integrity, adhering strictly to the rule of law and established procedures.

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“He further warned them to avoid all forms of lawlessness, human rights abuse, and unprofessional conduct, but to utilize their authority to protect citizens, enforce laws, and apprehend criminals.

“He concluded by congratulating the new constables and their families.

“The Executive Governor of Niger State was represented at the occasion by the Hon. Speaker, Niger State House of Assembly Rt. Hon. Abdulmalik Mohammed Sarkin-Daji.

“Other dignitaries that were in attendance include the Commissioner of Police, Niger State Command. CP Shawulu Ebenezer Danmamman. Representative of the Chairman, Police Service Commission, Hajiya Hauwa Kwamba. Heads of sister’s security agencies in the State, representative of the Emir of Minna, senior officers of the Command, and families of the graduates.

• …commiserates with Niger State government over loss of over 73 lives

The Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun, has directed Commissioners of Police (CPs) to strengthen the Motor Traffic Divisions (MTDs) in their state commands alongside other traffic management agencies.

Egbetokun said adherence will ensure strict compliance and enforcement of established protocols and traffic regulations on highways.

The police boss gave the directive while reacting to the explosion of a tanker at Dikko Junction, Abuja-Kaduna Expressway, Niger State.

The incident resulted in the death of over 73 lives and leaving several others injured with the destruction of numerous shops and property.

The IGP commiserated with the Niger State government over what he described as an unfortunate incident.  

A statement issued on Sunday by the Force Public Relation Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi said: “The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, has extended heartfelt condolences to the government and the good people of Niger State following the tragic tanker explosion that occurred yesterday, January 18, 2025, at Dikko Junction, Abuja-Kaduna Expressway, Niger State.

“This horrific incident occurred when a truck loaded with Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) lost control and eventually caught fire, resulting in the loss of over 73 lives and numerous others injured, with the destruction of several shops and property.

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“The IGP, while emphasizing the importance of strict adherence to safety protocols on our roads, warns firmly against the negligence and disregard for regulations that can lead to such catastrophic incidents.

“The IGP therefore directs all State Commissioners of Police to strengthen their Motor Traffic Divisions (MTDs) of their respective State Commands, in collaboration with other traffic management agencies, to ensure strict compliance and enforcement of established protocols and traffic regulations on highways.”

The IGP further charged vehicle owners and drivers to ensure that their vehicles are roadworthy and abide by the traffic rules in order to prevent any tragedies. 

While praying for the souls of the departed, Egbetokun called on all stakeholders, including transport operators and the general public, to prioritize safety and responsibility in their operations and actions, ensuring that such ugly incidents do not occur in the future.

Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun has approved the distribution of new kits and uniforms to NPF personnel in other ranks.

Egbetokun reaffirmed commitment to improving officers’ welfare and boosting their morale.

A statement yesterday by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi reads:  “This initiative supports his vision to enhance improved working conditions and professionalism within the force.

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 “The IGP expressed optimism that, with the approval of the 2025 budget, more welfare-focused projects will be implemented to further support officers to carry out their duties effectively.

 “The Nigeria Police Force remains dedicated to maintaining a well-equipped and motivated workforce for the safety and security of all Nigerians”.