IGP speaks after photo scandal with alleged scammer, reveals new rules

Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, on Monday broke his silence on public photo opportunities, days after images of him with a controversial figure sparked outrage online.

Speaking at a public function in Abuja, Egbetokun said his decision was “not driven by pride but by caution at a time when photo opportunities granted at special occasions can be weaponised.”

The remarks come days after widespread online debate over Nigerian socialite Nzube Henry Ikeji, alleged to have been involved in a $2.5 million romance and investment scam. The report highlighted that the alleged scammer was pictured with prominent Nigerians, including the IGP and his wife, prompting questions about how public figures can vet who they take pictures with.

Egbetokun stressed that declining such photo opportunities is a precautionary measure to avoid association with individuals whose reputations may later be challenged online.

In response to the fallout from the report, the IGP also reportedly ordered the removal of certain online records linked to the so-called “Fake Dubai Prince” socialite, part of an effort to manage misleading content circulating online.