…Say activist’s allegations misleading, baseless
…Warn against disinformation threatening national security
The Nigeria Police Force has strongly refuted activist Omoyele Sowore’s claims that the tenure of Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun is illegal, describing them as “baseless and misleading.”
In a statement issued on January 30, 2025, the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, reaffirmed that IGP Egbetokun’s appointment was in full compliance with the amended Police Act of 2020.
“IGP Egbetokun’s appointment is firmly grounded in law, specifically PART III, Section 7 (6) of the Police Act, 2020 (as amended), which states that ‘The person appointed to the office of the Inspector-General of Police shall hold office for four years,’” the statement read.
The police further clarified that Egbetokun’s tenure, running from October 31, 2023, to October 31, 2027, was ratified by the Police Council and confirmed by the Presidency, making it legally binding.
Sowore was arrested and detained at the Intelligence Response Team detention facility in Abuja on Monday over his allegations, which he first made in December 2024. He was arraigned on Wednesday but was granted bail on Thursday in the sum of N10 million with one surety in like sum.
The Police Force denounced his claims as an attempt to erode public confidence in its leadership and warned against misinformation that could undermine national security.
“The amendment aims to provide stability and continuity in the leadership of the Nigeria Police Force, enabling the IGP to implement long-term plans and policies without fear of abrupt termination,” the police stated.
The statement further urged Nigerians to be wary of false narratives that could mislead the public and compromise national security.
“We urge all citizens to focus on objective discussions that advance our shared mission of safeguarding lives and property, rather than indulging in disinformation that may undermine the significant strides we continue to make in maintaining public safety,” Adejobi added.
