Stop dragging IGP into civil, land matters, Police HQ warns Nigerians

The Nigeria Police High Command has warned Nigerians, particularly land speculators, to desist from dragging the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, into civil matters.

The High Command stated that it frowns upon such actions and would consider taking legal steps against individuals involved.

The Police Headquarters, through its spokesperson, ACP Muyiwa Adejobi, expressed the displeasure of Louis Edet House, noting with amusement recent allegations made against the IGP in connection with a land dispute involving one Ms. Bilikisu Ishaqu Aliyu and the Yesufu family.

“We find it necessary to address these unfounded claims and provide clarity on the matter, especially as the claims portray the police as an irresponsible, meddlesome, and lawless agency.

“It will be recalled that AIT, in their publication of July 10, 2024, titled ‘Yesufu Family Seeks Justice As Police Authorities Fail to Investigate Bilikisu Ishaqu,’ distorted the facts in the case and thus misled the public.

“First and foremost, it is important to emphasise that the IGP should not be dragged into civil matters such as this land dispute. The NPF’s role is primarily to maintain law and order and ensure public safety. The police only intervene in disputes when there are clear criminal elements involved.

“Similarly, the assertion that the police are at odds with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is unfounded, laughable, and without merit. The NPF maintains a cooperative and professional relationship with the EFCC, and there are no conflicts between the two agencies on this extant case or any other matter whatsoever. Any suggestion to the contrary is a blatant attempt to mislead the public and create unnecessary tension between both agencies.

“It is also vital to make it clear that if the parties involved in the dispute feel aggrieved and require the intervention of the IGP, there are proper channels to follow. Instead of resorting to media blackmail and attempting to malign the IGP’s reputation or ridicule the Police institution, the concerned parties should make official contact through the appropriate channels.

“The NPF is always open to addressing legitimate concerns and providing assistance where necessary, provided the correct procedures are followed.

“The Nigeria Police therefore urges the public to disregard these unfounded claims in the media and continue to seek intervention from the police on issues capable of triggering crises and violence, as the Force is committed to promoting peace, unity, and progress in our dear country.”