IGP Takes Strong Action Against Police Extortion, Orders Severe Punishments
Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun recently expressed strong disapproval over a growing number of extortion cases involving officers in the Nigeria Police Force. He specifically cited a serious case in Bayelsa State, where officers from Zone 16 Headquarters in Yenagoa—ASP Emmanuel Ubong, Inspector Nse Okon, Inspector Adiewere Collins, and Inspector Kuromare Marine—allegedly extorted N10 million from local youths. Through the intervention of the newly appointed Assistant Inspector-General (AIG) of Police for Zone 16, the extorted funds were recovered, and the accused officers were detained and placed on trial.
In a statement issued by the Force Spokesperson Muyiwa Adejobi, the IGP emphasized that the Nigeria Police Force has a strict zero-tolerance policy for corruption and misconduct among its ranks. Egbetokun vowed that each case of alleged misconduct would be thoroughly investigated, with guilty officers facing serious consequences. According to Adejobi, this stance aims to restore public trust in law enforcement by ensuring transparency and accountability. He further assured that severe penalties would be enforced on officers found guilty, regardless of rank, as a measure to deter future violations and maintain the integrity of the Force.
The IGP also encouraged public engagement, urging citizens to report incidents of misconduct through the provided police helplines. By inviting the public to participate in monitoring the Force’s conduct, Egbetokun aims to build a more transparent police service that actively addresses corruption and reaffirms its commitment to lawfulness and public service.
This incident highlights a broader push for reform within Nigeria’s police, where challenges such as abuse of power, bribery, and extortion have undermined public confidence for years. Egbetokun’s recent actions reflect an ongoing initiative within the Force to address these systemic issues and promote a culture of accountability, with the aim of rebuilding trust and demonstrating that no officer is above the law. The Nigeria Police Force, under Egbetokun’s leadership, is committed to a cleaner, more just, and accountable system that serves the interests of the Nigerian people.
