The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has condemned the alleged extortions carried out by some police officers in various parts of the country, ordering “severe” penalties for those found guilty of corruption.
A statement issued on Friday, November 8, by the Force’s Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumiyiwa Adejobi, referred to the case involving officers from Zone 16 Zonal Headquarters in Yenagoa—ASP Emmanuel Ubong, Inspector Nse Okon, Inspector Adiewere Collins, and Inspector Kuromare Marine—who were accused of extorting N10 million from a group of young Nigerians.
Adejobi confirmed that the money had been recovered through the efforts of the new Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of Zone 16. He also stated that the officers had been detained and were undergoing an orderly room trial.
The statement reads in part:
“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....Read Full Article [Click Here>]
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.”
In addition, Adejobi mentioned that the IGP has scheduled a workshop for police officers focused on child care and effective investigations.
“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.”