IGP Orders ‘Severe’ Penalty For Officers Found Extorting Nigerians

The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, has criticized suspected extortions by some police personnel in certain sections of the country and has issued “severe” punishment to corrupt officers.

In a statement signed by the Force’s Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumiyiwa Adejobi, and released on Friday, November 8, the police chief mentioned the case involving officers from the Zone 16 Zonal Headquarters in Yenegoa, identified as ASP Emmanuel Ubong, Inspector Nse Okon, Inspector Adiewere Collins, and Inspector Kuromare Marine.

The officers were accused of extorting N10 million from a group of young Nigerians.

Adejobi stated that the money was retrieved through the efforts of the new Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of Zone 16. He went on to say that the policemen had been held and would be tried in an orderly chamber.

The statement in part reads: “The Nigeria Police Force, under the leadership of IGP Egbetokun, maintains a zero-tolerance policy for any act of corruption and police misconduct, as the Force takes every allegation of extortion and abuse of power extremely seriously.

“The IGP has however reassured the general public that the force will continue to investigate all allegations levelled against erring officers of the Force thoroughly.

“In pursuit of restorative justice, the Inspector-General of Police has mandated severe consequences for any officer, no matter how highly ranked, found culpable, acting as a deterrent to those who may seek to compromise the integrity of the Force.”

According to Adejobi, the IGP has also planned a session for police personnel on child care and effective investigation.

“Similarly, to guarantee that officers within the Force receive adequate training in child care and protection and effective investigations considerate of vulnerable individuals, most especially children in conflict with the law, the IGP has rescheduled the workshop with all Heads of Police investigative units to take place on Monday, November 11, 2024.

“The workshop will not only focus on enhancing technical capabilities but also emphasise the essential ethical principles when dealing with sensitive cases in order to have a child-friendly police system in Nigeria.

“By emphasising compassion, transparency, and adherence to modern investigation techniques, the Nigeria Police Force aims to foster a culture of professionalism and accountability among its personnel, thereby strengthening public trust and confidence in the organisation.”

A Gentle Reminder: Every obstacle is a stepping stone, every morning; a chance to go again, and those little steps take you closer to your dream.

Nnamdi Okoli