- Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun is globally respected, with a strong reputation defended by Force PRO Muyiwa Adejobi amid election-related tensions
- Adejobi emphasized the Nigerian Police Force’s commitment to neutrality and maintaining peace during elections, condemning recent violent attacks in Rivers State
According to Muyiwa Adejobi, the force public relations officer, the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, is highly respected and sought after globally.
Adejobi made this statement in response to the escalating crisis in Rivers State following the local government election on Saturday, which led to clashes between supporters of Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), and Governor Siminalayi Fubara. Three local government secretariats were set on fire on Monday.
In the lead-up to the election, Governor Fubara had accused IGP Egbetokun of siding with Wike and vowed to hold him accountable for any breakdown of law and order. However, Adejobi dismissed these allegations as unnecessary and defended the IGP’s integrity and reputation.
“For clarity, the public can review the IGP’s career and track record, which reflect his honour, integrity, and focus before and after his appointment as the 22nd Indigenous Inspector-General of Police of Nigeria,” Adejobi said.
He further noted that IGP Egbetokun is respected internationally, particularly in Africa, where he currently serves as the Chairman of the West African Police Chiefs Committee (WAPCCO).
Adejobi highlighted that the IGP has received international recognition. Police chiefs from around the world attend his events in Nigeria, including the president of Interpol, who participated in the Nigeria Police conference and retreat in Owerri last year.
The Force PRO emphasized that the Nigerian Police Force (NPF) does not intend to engage in political disputes but remains neutral and focuses on maintaining peace and security during elections.
He also condemned the violent attacks on local government secretariats in Rivers State, tasking the state Commissioner of Police with restoring law and order.
The IGP reiterated the Police Force’s commitment to upholding democratic principles and fostering peace, unity, and progress nationwide.