Zero Tolerance: IGP vows to crush corruption within police ranks

By Kazeem Ugbodaga

The Inspector-General of Police (IGP),Kayode Egbetokun, has voiced strong disapproval over recent reports of extortion and excessive force by certain officers within the Nigeria Police Force.

Addressing senior police officials at a high-level conference held at the Goodluck Ebele Jonathan International Peacekeeping Hall, Force Headquarters, Abuja, on Friday, the IGP reaffirmed the police leadership’s zero-tolerance stance on corruption and misconduct.

During the meeting, attended by Assistant Inspectors-General of Police, Commissioners of Police, and other senior officials, the IGP urged senior officers to ensure strict supervision of their subordinates.

He emphasized the need for all officers to uphold the highest standards of professionalism while executing their duties, noting that any lapse in supervision would lead to vicarious liability.

To strengthen this oversight, Egbetokun directed the IGP X-Squad, Monitoring Unit, Complaint Response Unit (CRU), and other disciplinary bodies to conduct routine checks on police activities nationwide, saying that officers found guilty of misconduct would face severe disciplinary actions.

In addition, the IGP issued a stern caution against the unethical practice of officers using his name, or the names of other senior officials, to extort money from unsuspecting members of the public.

He stressed that any officer involved in such activities would be met with swift and harsh punishment.

The IGP encouraged Nigerians to report any attempts by police officers to use his name or position for fraudulent purposes, underscoring the vital role of public vigilance in ensuring accountability within the force.