EXCLUSIVE: Officers Using IGP’s Name To Commit Illegal Acts
The Nigeria Police Force has issued a warning to the public to exercise caution when dealing with individuals claiming to have connections with the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, or other senior officers.
According to the Force, some unscrupulous individuals are misusing the name and office of the IGP to perpetrate illegal activities, including extortion and intimidation.
The police said on Saturday that the scammers claimed to have the IGP’s approval or backing to carry out their nefarious activities.
The Police Force has condemned this trend, describing it as alarming and unprofessional.
The warning was contained in a public notice on Saturday morning by the Force Public Relations Officer ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi titled: “misuse of name, office of the Inspector-General of Police”.
The statement partly read, “The Nigeria Police Force is concerned about the persistent unprofessional conduct of a few Police officers which undermines the standards and reputation of the Nigeria Police Force. Despite repeated warnings and disciplinary actions taken against those who have been exposed, some officers are still engaging in these shameful acts that erode public trust.
“Even more alarming is the fraudulent use of the name and office of the Inspector-General of Police to perpetrate these illegal acts. The intention behind this tactic is to intimidate victims into believing that the IGP is aware, and approves of their illegal activities. As a result, victims are often deterred from reporting these incidents to higher authorities.
“We urge members of the public to report any misconduct by Police Officers to their superiors, the Heads of the Complaint Response Units (CRU) in their states or the Commissioner of Police in the state. Contact information for the CRU in all states has been published previously.
“Members of the public are therefore advised to exercise caution when approached by officers or individuals claiming connections with the IGP or any senior officer for the purpose of influence or favour.
“The Nigeria Police Force assures all Nigerians of its commitment to upholding the highest standards of integrity and professionalism. We encourage the public to collaborate with us by reporting any suspicious activities to ensure that justice and fairness prevail at all times.”
