The Nation Newspaper

Tag: Police

  • Police affirms commitment to press freedom and due process, rejects IPI allegations

    Police affirms commitment to press freedom and due process, rejects IPI allegations

    The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) on Wednesday dismissed allegations linking the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Olukayode Egbetokun, to the alleged wrongful arrest of a journalist, describing the claims as “unfounded, misleading, and unsupported by facts.”

    According to a statement issued by the Force Public Relations Officer CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, the force reaction came in response to the International Press Institute (IPI) announcing the suspension of its engagement with the Force over the incident.

    The police clarified that the IGP neither authorized nor condoned the arrest, harassment, or intimidation of any journalist. 

    Upon notification by the IPI President, Mr. Musikilu Mojeed, the IGP immediately ordered the journalist’s release and directed the Force Monitoring Unit to investigate the conduct of the officers involved. 

    Hundeyin emphasized that any officer found culpable would face disciplinary action in line with extant laws.

    He said, “The IGP has consistently made it clear that misconduct by individual officers cannot and must not be attributed to the leadership of the Force or weaponized to malign the institution”.

    The Police highlighted that with over 300,000 personnel deployed nationwide, isolated cases of misconduct may occur, but they are promptly investigated and addressed. 

    Read Also: Police arraign man for allegedly defrauding Soun of N39.5m

    He noted that the IPI declined multiple invitations to formally engage with the Force Monitoring Unit to adopt and harmonize its statements, a necessary step for concluding the investigation.

    Hundeyin described the IPI’s decision to suspend engagement over a single incident despite immediate corrective measures and ongoing investigations as disproportionate and called for objectivity in assessing the matter.

    The NPF reaffirmed its commitment to constitutional policing, media freedom, and professional accountability, stating that no organization has the authority to circumvent due process or pronounce guilt while investigations are ongoing.

    “The Force remains resolute in enforcing discipline within its ranks and upholding the rule of law, but it will also firmly resist attempts to unfairly impugn the integrity of its leadership,” the statement concluded.

    The NPF assured the public that it will continue to uphold professional standards while engaging constructively with stakeholders.

  • Police arraign man for allegedly defrauding Soun of N39.5m

    Police arraign man for allegedly defrauding Soun of N39.5m

    The Oyo State Police Command on Tuesday arraigned one Ali Muhammed before a magistrate court in Ogbomoso over the alleged defrauding of the Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Ghandi Olaoye, of N39.5 million under the pretext of selling him a vehicle through a Nigerian Customs Service (NCS) auction.

    The 45-year-old suspect was arraigned on a four-count charge bordering on fraud, impersonation, and conspiracy.

    According to the charge sheet marked MOC/234c/C/2025, Muhammed allegedly presented himself as the Comptroller of the Nigerian Customs Service in Oyo State and promised to auction a vehicle to the monarch. The offence was described as impersonation, contrary to and punishable under Section 484 of the Criminal Code, Cap 38, Vol. II, Laws of Oyo State of Nigeria, 2000.

    Part of the charge sheet read, “That you, Ali Muhammed, ‘M’ and others now at large, between the 12th day of October, 2025, and the 19th day of October, 2025, at Oja-Igbo area, Ogbomoso, in the Ogbomoso Magisterial District, did conspire with one another to commit felony to wit: obtaining money under false pretence, stealing and impersonation, and thereby committed an offence contrary to and punishable under Section 516 of the Criminal Code, Cap 38, Vol. II, Laws of Oyo State of Nigeria, 2000.”

    The case was adjourned for further proceedings.

    “COUNT II: – That you Ali Muhammed, ‘M’ and others now at large, on the same date, time and place in the aforementioned Magisterial district

    with intent to defraud Obtain the sum of Thirty-Nine Million, Five Hundred Thousand Naira (#39,500,000:00) from HRM Oba Ghandi Olaoye ‘m’ under the pretence of selling auctioned vehicles and bags of rice to him which you knew to be false and thereby committed an offence

    Contrary to and punishable under Section 419 of the Criminal Code, Cap 38, Vol. II, Laws of Oyo State of Nigeria, 2000.

    “COUNT III: – That you Ali Muhammed ‘M’ and others now at large, on the same date, time and place in the aforementioned Magisterial district did steal and fraudulently convert the sum of Thirty-Nine Million, Five Hundred Thousand Naira (#39,500,000:00) to your own use property of HRM Oba Ghandi Olaoye ‘m’ and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 383 and punishable under Section 390(9) of the Criminal Code, Cap 38, Vol. II, Laws of Oyo State of Nigeria, 2000.

    “COUNT IV: – That you, Ali Muhammed ‘M’ and others now at large, on the same date, time and place in the aforementioned Magisterial district did falsely represent yourself to be the Comptroller of customs, Oyo/Osun

    Command, Comptroller Gambo Aliyu ‘m’ with intent to defraud HRM Oba Ghandi Olaoye ‘m’ of the sum of Thirty-Nine Million, Five Hundred Thousand Naira (#39,500,000:00) and thereby committed an offence contrary to and punishable under Section 484 of the Criminal Code, Cap 38, Vol. II, Laws of Qyo State of Nigeria, 2000.”

    Muhammed pleaded ‘not guilty’ to the charges. He was granted bail in the sum of N5 million with two sureties living within the court’s jurisdiction.

    Hearing was adjourned to January 28, 2026.

  • Another Police Inspector commits suicide amid investigation into arms supply in Niger

    Another Police Inspector commits suicide amid investigation into arms supply in Niger

    Another serving police inspector has reportedly committed suicide following his arrest over alleged involvement in supplying arms and ammunition to bandits and other criminals in Niger State.

    The development comes barely a week after DSP Isah Abdullahi, Officer in Charge of Mopol 12 Armoury at the B Division of the police command on Paikoro Road, Minna, also took his own life while under investigation for similar allegations.

    The latest victim, identified as Inspector John Moses, an indigene of Shiroro Local Government Area, was arrested and detained after being implicated in the network of individuals involved in the illicit arms trade. 

    Reports indicate that Moses allegedly confessed to using his brother as an intermediary in the supply chain.

    According to sources, Moses killed himself in the detention cell on Sunday, where he was held alongside other suspects. 

    He reportedly struck his head against the wall several times before collapsing and dying.

    When contacted, Niger State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Wasiu Abiodun, said the case is currently being handled by the National Security Adviser (NSA).

  • NBA seeks urgent police action over missing lawyer

    NBA seeks urgent police action over missing lawyer

    The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Lagos Branch, has called for urgent intervention by security agencies to secure the safe return of its member, Mr. Ugwuoke Henry Onyebuchi.

    The missing lawyer, popularly known as “Odogwu Lawyer,” was last seen at about 9 pm on December 10 in Lagos, and his whereabouts have remained unknown since then.

    NBA, in a statement by the Chairman, Uchenna Ogunedo Akingbade, said a formal complaint has been lodged at the Ilasan Police Station, where preliminary investigations are ongoing.

    It added that the case has also been formally escalated to the Lagos State Commissioner of Police for further action.

    Describing the development as extremely troubling, the NBA Lagos noted that the disappearance of a legal practitioner raises serious concerns not only about the personal safety of the missing lawyer, but also about the broader issue of security and the protection of members of the legal profession and Nigerian citizens at large.

    “In light of the current security realities in the country, this development is extremely disturbing,” the statement said.

    Stressing that cases of missing persons require swift and decisive action, the Branch called on the Lagos State Commissioner of Police to urgently intervene by deploying all necessary investigative resources to determine Mr. Onyebuchi’s whereabouts and ensure his safe recovery.

    It warned that with each passing day without progress, the chances of a safe outcome could diminish, and therefore urged relevant authorities to treat the matter with the urgency, seriousness, and priority it deserves.

    NBA Lagos further assured that it stands ready to cooperate fully with security agencies in the investigation and would continue to monitor developments closely until the matter is resolved.

  • Police deploy 5,000 personnel for yuletide security in Lagos

    Police deploy 5,000 personnel for yuletide security in Lagos

    The Police Command in Lagos State has deployed more than 5,000 police personnel across the state to ensure a peaceful and secured Christmas and New Year celebration for residents and visitors.

    This was disclosed in a statement issued on Tuesday evening by the Command’s spokesperson, SP Abimbola Adebisi.

    She said deployment followed the Commissioner of Police, Mr Olohundare Jimoh’s order, in line with the directives of the Inspector-General of Police, Mr kayode Egbetokun.

    Adebisi said the security operation involved conventional police officers, tactical units, intelligence operatives, marine police and special squads strategically positioned across the state to guarantee safety throughout the festive period.

    “The operation is aimed at monitoring individuals or groups whose activities could threaten public peace, preventing criminal infiltration through the waterways and forestalling any breach of security during and after the celebrations.

    “Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers and heads of tactical units have been directed to intensify patrols, ensure visibility policing and maintain round-the-clock surveillance across all parts of Lagos State before, during and after the festivities, ” she said.

    She said that officers on duty had been charged to remain professional, courteous and firm in the discharge of their responsibilities.

    To address traffic congestion usually associated with the festive rush, the spokesperson said that more than 5,000 personnel had been deployed for traffic management duties on major highways, inner roads and identified traffic-prone areas across the state.

    In a bid to further reduce road accidents, Adebisi said Jimoh held a strategic meeting with the Executive Secretary of the Lagos State Security Trust Fund, Dr Ayodele Ogunsan, alongside other security and safety agencies.

    Read Also: Tinted glass permit: Is the police above the law?

    She noted that participants at the meeting included representatives of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), Lagos State Fire Service and the Federal Controller of Works, among others.

    She said that the meeting focused on sustainable measures to reduce road accidents and enhance public safety during the festive season.

    Adebisi also revealed that joint police teams comprising conventional officers, tactical squads, smart operatives and intelligence units had been deployed across the state to clamp down on traffic robbers, hoodlums and other criminal elements seeking to exploit the festive period.

    According to her, special attention is being given to the security of places of worship, recreational centres, nightclubs, markets, motor parks and other public gathering points expected to witness increased human traffic during the celebrations.

    The police image maker assured residents and visitors of the command’s unwavering commitment to the protection of lives and property throughout the festive season and beyond.

    She urged members of the public to remain law-abiding and vigilant, and to promptly report any suspicious activities or incidents to the nearest police station or through the Command’s emergency lines: 07061019374, 08065154338, 08063299264 and 08039344870.
    (NAN)

  • Tinted glass permit: Is the police above the law?

    Tinted glass permit: Is the police above the law?

    Sir: The controversies surrounding the enforcement of the tinted glass permit policy are far from over. What should have been a straightforward regulatory issue has now grown into a public debate touching on the rule of law, institutional accountability, and the limits of police powers in a constitutional democracy. At the centre of this debate is the Nigeria Police Force and the office of the Inspector General of Police (IGP), whose insistence on enforcement has raised serious legal and ethical questions.

    The renewed tension follows a back-and-forth exchange between the Nigeria Police and the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) over a court order reportedly halting the enforcement of the tinted glass permit policy. The NBA maintains that a competent court has issued an order restraining the police from enforcing the policy pending the determination of the substantive suit. This position, coming from the umbrella body of legal practitioners, has understandably drawn public attention and concern.

    The police, however, have taken a different stance. They argue that although such an order may exist, they have not been formally served and therefore are not bound by it. On this basis, the police insist that enforcement will commence on January 2, 2026. This position raises a troubling question: Does the mere absence of service justify proceeding with an action that is already under judicial consideration?

    In defending their position, the police have repeatedly argued that criminals and terrorists use vehicles with tinted glass to perpetrate heinous crimes, including armed robbery, kidnapping, and terrorism. According to the police, enforcing the tinted glass permit is a necessary security measure aimed at curbing criminal activities and improving public safety. On the surface, this argument appears reasonable and appeals to widespread fears about insecurity.

    However, this justification becomes weak when examined against the reality of Nigeria’s security challenges. It is a well-known fact that much of the insecurity currently facing the country is driven by banditry and kidnappings. These crimes are predominantly carried out by armed groups operating on motorcycles and within forested areas, not by individuals driving tinted glass vehicles through urban roads.

    Read Also: NADDC backs Made-in-Nigeria motorsport cars at Lagos AutoFest 2025

    Moreover, the assumption that a tinted glass permit can prevent crime is fundamentally flawed. Criminals do not typically use vehicles registered in their own names to commit crimes, nor do they rely on official permits to shield themselves from law enforcement. A permit regime may inconvenience law-abiding citizens, but it offers little deterrence to organised criminal networks operating outside the law.

    The real issue, therefore, is not the effectiveness of the tinted glass permit, but the insistence of the Nigeria Police on proceeding with enforcement in the face of a pending court order. In a constitutional democracy, once a matter is before a court, all parties are expected to exercise restraint until the court has fully determined the issue. Anything short of this undermines the authority of the judiciary.

    This situation inevitably raises a disturbing question: does the conduct of the Nigeria Police and the IGP suggest that they consider themselves above the law? If the police, as the primary enforcers of law and order, appear unwilling to subject themselves to judicial processes, the implications for democratic governance and public trust are grave.

    There is no convincing reason why the police cannot allow the court process to be exhausted. Compliance with judicial orders, whether served or not, reflects respect for the rule of law and institutional maturity. Rather than intimidating the NBA and harassing road users over the tinted glass permit, the Nigeria Police should pause enforcement, obey the law, and allow the courts to have the final word. Only then can they legitimately claim to be protectors, not violators, of the law.

    •Tochukwu Jimo Obi, Obosi Anambra state.

  • Police apprehend 13 cultists in Delta forest during initiation, recover arms

    Police apprehend 13 cultists in Delta forest during initiation, recover arms

    • …allege suspects open fire to evade capture

    The Delta State Police Command has achieved a significant milestone in its ongoing battle against cultism and violent crime with the successful apprehension of thirteen (13) suspected members of the Aiye Confraternity, also known as Black Axe.

    This operation reportedly took place during a tactical intervention in the Ekraka Community forest located in Kokori, Ethiope East Local Government Area of the state.

    Shedding light on the operation, the Command’s spokesman, Superintendent of Police (SP) Bright Edafe, said on December 20, 2025, the police operatives acted on credible intelligence regarding a planned initiation ceremony by the cult members in the forest.

    Edafe said the operatives, led by SP Collins Achem, Commander of the Quick Response Squad (QRS), executed the operation in a highly strategic manner.

    He stated that the incident occurred around 2300 hours, when the suspects were confronted by a police patrol team.

    The spokesman said upon the patrol team’s arrival, the suspects initiated a gunfight in an attempt to evade capture.

    He averred that the police operatives demonstrated exceptional professionalism and tactical acumen, resulting in the arrest of thirteen (13) suspects.

    He, however, said several other suspected cult members managed to escape into the dense forest.

    Edafe said during the search of the area, law enforcement recovered an array of dangerous items, including firearms — two (2) automatic pump-action guns, one (1) double-barrelled cut-to-size gun, and one (1) single-barrelled cut-to-size gun.

    Other Items recovered, according to the spokesman, are one (1) battle axe, aprons displaying the “NBM” insignia, razor blades that had been cut into pieces, several mobile phones, charms, and suspected hard drugs.

    Edafe said the operation underscored the Delta State Police Command’s commitment to combating cultism and ensuring the safety and security of communities.

    He equally said the recovery of firearms and other dangerous items is a crucial step in curtailing the activities of violent crime syndicates in the state.

    He further said that, in addition, seven (7) vehicles believed to be owned and used by members of the cult group were recovered and towed to the QRS Base in Warri.

    Edafe said the suspects are currently in custody, while investigations have commenced to establish their individual roles, dismantle the network, and track down other fleeing members of the syndicate.

    Meanwhile, the Command has said it has zero tolerance for cultism and violent crime.

    The spokesman, therefore, called on parents, schools, community and faith leaders, and youths to see the fight against cultism as a shared duty, driven by guidance, positive role models, and timely reporting.

    Edafe urged residents to remain vigilant and to continue supporting the police with credible information as efforts to keep Delta State safe continue.

  • Delta police command denies flouting order on withdrawal of officers attached to VIPs

    Delta police command denies flouting order on withdrawal of officers attached to VIPs

    The Delta State Police Command has clarified its stance regarding the withdrawal of police officers assigned to protect Very Important Personalities (VIPs). 

    The command emphasised that the ongoing withdrawal process is being executed without bias or selective treatment. 

    Police spokesman in the state, SP Bright Edafe, said that the implementation of the order is being conducted in a structured and professional manner to ensure that public safety remains a priority. 

    He said the clarification was issued in response to allegations that police officers continue to be attached to a resident named Sunny Nwakaego in Sapele, despite the directives for withdrawal. 

    He reassured the public that their commitment to maintaining safety and security in the community is paramount, and any exceptions made in individual cases will be addressed appropriately.

    The statement reads, “The Delta State Police Command has observed with concern a misleading online report published by Sahara Reporters alleging that the Command has flouted the Presidential directive on the withdrawal of police personnel from VIP duties. The Command categorically states that the report is false, unfounded, and misleading. The purported story suggesting non-compliance by the Delta State Police Command emanates from unverified social media posts and reports that do not reflect the factual position of the Command or the Nigeria Police Force (NPF).

    “The allegation that officers remain attached to a resident identified as Sunny Nwakaego in Sapele despite a directive from the Presidency is incorrect and should be disregarded. The command does not have personnel attached to the said person as published by Sahara reporters.

    “However it’s pertinent to state that on 12th December 2025, the DPO Sapele division received a distress call from one precious Itorho and Believe Odorkor against the said Sunday Okeke. Their disagreement over an undisclosed business transaction led to a feud and the DPO Sapele acted swiftly and invited all parties to the Division where statements were recorded and they were granted bail while investigation continued.

    “The Command wishes to reaffirm that it is in full compliance with the directive of the Federal Government, as conveyed by the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, directing the nationwide withdrawal and redeployment of officers from personal VIP attachments to core policing duties. Implementation has been carried out in a structured and professional manner to ensure public safety is not compromised.”

    The Command reaffirmed its commitment to the safety and security of all citizens and continues to implement government policies with professionalism, discipline, and transparency. 

    It urged members of the press to verify information from the Command through the office of the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) before publication.

  • Police warns against use of fireworks in Niger

    Police warns against use of fireworks in Niger

    The Niger state Police Command has warned against the use of fireworks during the Christmas and New Year celebration emphasising that the ban is still in force.

    The State Commissioner of Police, Adamu Abdullahi Elleman also assured of quick response for intervention in case of any incident.

    According to a statement signed by the state Police Public Relations Officer, SP Abiodun Wasiu, the Commissioner of Police has ordered for adequate deployment of Police personnel and operational assets for a peaceful Christmas and New Year celebration in the State.

    According to him, Area Commanders, Tactical Commanders and DPOs have been directed that the deployment should adequately cover public places, particularly, places of worship, recreation centres, amusement parks, motor parks and highways within the State to provide the required security coverage before, during and after the season.

    He directed officers to strictly adhere to the operation order drawn for the season, and ensure intelligence-led and high visibility policing, with respect for human rights across the State, while ensuring the safety of travellers and free flow of traffic. 

    “The Commissioner stated that this is in addition to the joint Show of Force and township patrol of Operation Flush, as well as constant raids of black spots, which are proactive measures emplaced for crime prevention, and quick response for intervention in case of any incident”, the statement read.

    The police further urged members of the public and Christian faithfuls to be law-abiding and celebrate responsibly calling on the people to be vigilant and continue to support the Police and other security agencies with credible information towards ensuring a secured environment.

  • Christmas, New Year: Oyo police issue security advisory to residents

    Christmas, New Year: Oyo police issue security advisory to residents

    The Oyo State Police Command has issued a security advisory to residents ahead of the Christmas and New Year festivities.

    In a statement, the Command’s spokesperson, Adewale Osifeso, said all religious gatherings during the festive season must be held in open and publicly accessible locations to enable security agencies respond promptly in the event of emergencies.

    He warned that no event should take place in secluded areas without prior notification to relevant security authorities, stressing that the measure is necessary for effective oversight and the safety of lives and property.

    Osifeso urged residents to remain vigilant and work closely with law enforcement agencies to enhance community safety. 

    He advised members of the public to promptly report any suspicious activities or safety concerns to the nearest police station or through emergency service channels.

    Read Also: Ribadu, Umahi, Ojulari in Rivers to deepen Ogoni peace talks

    The police spokesperson reiterated that the unauthorised storage, sale, distribution and use of fireworks remain prohibited, noting that such activities pose serious risks that could result in accidents and injuries. 

    He said the Command would enforce strict penalties against violators, as the protection of lives and property during the festive period is a top priority.

    He also reminded residents that the ban on the unauthorised use of sirens, revolving lights and covered number plates remains in force, adding that offenders would be dealt with in accordance with the law.

    Osifeso said the Command had intensified security measures across the state in anticipation of increased activities during the holidays. 

    According to him, additional officers have been deployed to strategic locations, including markets, public gathering spots and places of worship, to ensure adequate security for residents and visitors.

    He assured that the Oyo State Police Command remains committed to safeguarding the safety and well-being of all residents during the festive celebrations, calling on the public to embrace unity and cooperation to promote a peaceful and secure environment across the state.