Kayode Egbetokun

By Hadiza Abdulkadir

In a moment of pride for the Nigeria Police Force and the nation at large, Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Olukayode Egbetokun on Tuesday received Sergeant Peter Theophilus Tanko at the Force Headquarters, Abuja, in recognition of his outstanding academic achievement in China.

Sergeant Tanko, who is attached to the INTERPOL Section of the Force Criminal Investigations Department (FCID), recently completed a five-year law degree in the People’s Republic of China, emerging as the best graduating student at Jiangsu Police Institute. His journey began with a year-long Chinese language course at Nanjing Normal University.

As a result of his academic excellence, Tanko was selected to deliver the valedictory speech for all international students at the convocation ceremony held in June 2023.

The IGP commended Tanko’s dedication and discipline, describing his success as a testament to the potential within the Force. He reiterated his administration’s commitment to supporting officers in the pursuit of education and professional development.

Egbetokun also urged police personnel across the country to emulate Sergeant Tanko’s example by embracing self-development, adding that intellectual growth is key to the Force’s overall success.

By Hadiza Abdulkadir

The Nigeria Police Force has retracted its invitation to Alhaji Sanusi regarding the recent unrest during the Sallah celebration in Kano State on March 30, 2025. The invitation was initially extended to gather Alhaji Sanusi’s account of the events that led to the disruption of peace during the festivities.

Following consultations with key stakeholders, Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, emphasized the importance of keeping policing actions free from political bias and misinterpretation. Instead of requiring Alhaji Sanusi’s attendance at the police station, the IGP has directed the operatives of the Force Intelligence Department (FID) to go to Kano and obtain his statement directly.

Prior to the Sallah celebrations, police received credible intelligence suggesting that two rival emirs, Alh Ado Bayero and Alh Lamido Sanusi, intended to hold separate Durbar Festivals, a tradition that involves emirs parading on horseback. To prevent potential violence, IGP Egbetokun deployed Deputy Inspector-General of Police, DIG Abubakar Sadiq, to negotiate with both parties and the Kano State Government, resulting in an agreement to cancel the festivities.

Despite this understanding, Alhaji Sanusi proceeded to ride a horse in a procession post-Eid prayers, which led to escalating tensions with local youths and ultimately resulted in the death of one Usman Sagiru, along with several injuries.

The Nigeria Police Force has assured the public of its commitment to professionalism in investigating the incident, stating that those responsible will face justice. The police further clarified that their actions are driven by principles of neutrality and professionalism.

ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the Force Public Relations Officer, reiterated the police’s dedication to conducting thorough investigations into the matter.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

The Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, addressed the nation in light of the planned nationwide protests, emphasizing the severe negative effects of violent demonstrations on our society. 

In his address, the IGP highlighted several critical points that underscore the importance of maintaining peace and order during protests.

“It is not only in Nigeria that there is hardship. It is a global meltdown. Is the government doing anything about it? Yes! This is what a responsive government will do,” stated the IGP. He stressed that while the current economic challenges are not unique to Nigeria, the government is actively working to mitigate their impact and provide relief to the citizens.

Reflecting on the 2020 EndSARS protest, the IGP remarked, “Where police stations were burnt down, criminals took over. Arms looted were in the wrong hands, and armed robbers took over. Women could no longer walk freely once it is 7 pm.” He warned that the destruction of police infrastructure leads to a breakdown in law and order, leaving communities vulnerable to criminal activities.

“There are enough lessons to learn from previous violent protests in Nigeria,” the IGP continued, urging citizens to remember the chaos and suffering that followed such events. “Serious dangers come with unchecked demonstrations,” he added, highlighting the potential for loss of life, property damage, and widespread fear among the populace.

The IGP acknowledged the right to protest, stating, “The right to protest is a right to peaceful protest.”He called on all Nigerians to exercise this right responsibly and to avoid actions that could escalate into violence. Peaceful protests, he emphasized, are a powerful tool for expressing grievances and driving change without endangering lives and properties.

In conclusion, the IGP reaffirmed the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to protecting the rights of citizens while maintaining law and order. He urged all Nigerians to cooperate with the Police to ensure that any forthcoming protests are peaceful and orderly.

By Haroon Aremu Abiodun

The issue of Police arresting gun runners is not new, but the nabbing of some gun runners by men of the Plateau State Police Command last week stands out. However, Nigerians are clamouring for more. They are equally making a case for swift prosecutions or thorough investigations of suspected criminals after their arrest.

In recent times, and under the leadership of the Inspector General of Police, IGP, Kayode Egbetokun, the Nigeria Police Force’s tireless efforts have been notably effective in apprehending criminals engaged in various nefarious activities across the length and breadth of the country. 

The Police Intelligence Department and Tactical Response Team last week arrested about 67 suspects, including those involved in kidnapping, gun-running, one-chance robbery, and banditry. They recovered 5,454 rounds of live ammunition, 300 live cartridges, 50 empty shells of ammunition, 68 rifles, and 33 different ATM cards. 

The feat undoubtedly is a testament to law enforcement’s dedication and strategic approach, showcasing the police force’s unwavering commitment to curbing crimes and maintaining community safety. While applauding these crime-busting accomplishments, it is crucial to consider the next steps to ensure justice serves as a deterrent to potential offenders and criminal-minded persons. 

Beyond arrests, there is a need for thorough Police investigations into the root causes and motivations for criminal activities, by Nigerian youths mostly. This will go a long way to curb the perpetration of crimes.

The delay in the immediate prosecution of arrested suspects is a matter of concern, which is not to undermine the complexities of the legal process but to emphasise the urgency in delivering justice, as prompt adjudication of cases related to criminal activities is crucial for maintaining public trust in the legal system. 

Investigating officers should adopt a meticulous approach to prevent innocent victims from being wrongfully accused. It is imperative to utilize advanced forensic techniques, gather credible intelligence, and collaborate with relevant agencies. 

A careful examination of identified evidence, coupled with the application of modern technology, will contribute to a more accurate and unbiased investigation process. Regardless of the influence and power a criminal may wield, justice should be made to prevail. 

It should be glaringly emphasised that no individual, no matter how influential, should be above the law. Law enforcement agencies should remain committed to upholding justice, irrespective of external pressures.

The fight against crime is not, and will never be a stroll in the park. But it is winnable, especially by the time crime offenders are diligently prosecuted, to send a strong message to their ilks.

Haroon Aremu, a NYSC member with PRNigeria center Abuja.