In a strong rebuke of alleged misconduct within the ranks of the Nigeria Police Force, Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, expressed deep concern over reports of extortion and high-handedness by certain officers.
This condemnation came during a recent conference with senior police officials held at the Goodluck Ebele Jonathan International Peacekeeping Hall, Force Headquarters, Abuja.
Addressing Assistant Inspectors-General of Police, Commissioners of Police, and heads of various formations, IGP Egbetokun charged senior officers with the critical responsibility of ensuring proper supervision over their personnel. He asserted, “It is imperative that the highest standard of professional conduct is maintained and upheld in the course of carrying out their lawful duties.”
To combat corruption and misconduct, the IGP directed the IGP X-Squad, Monitoring Unit, Complaint Response Unit (CRU), and other disciplinary units to conduct routine checks on officers’ activities nationwide. He warned that “strict punishment” will be imposed on any officer found guilty of misconduct, stating that supervisory officers who fail to uphold these standards will also face vicarious liability.
The IGP also issued a stern warning regarding the unethical practice of name-dropping, particularly the misuse of his name and that of other senior officers to extort money from the public.
He emphasized, “Any officer found guilty of leveraging his name for fraudulent activities or extortion will face severe disciplinary measures,” reiterating the leadership’s unwavering stance on corruption and unprofessional behavior.
In a call to action for the public, IGP Egbetokun urged citizens to remain vigilant and report any attempts to exploit his name for fraudulent activities. He highlighted the vital role that the community plays in collaborative policing, stating, “The involvement of citizens is crucial in ensuring a transparent and accountable police force.”
ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the Force Public Relations Officer, conveyed these important messages on behalf of the IGP, reinforcing the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to uphold integrity and professionalism.
