EXCLUSIVE: IGP Egbetokun Defies Tinubu, Approves Police Escorts for INEC Officials Nationwide

Inspector-General of Police, Usman Alkali Egbetokun, has reportedly approved police escorts for all INEC officials, including National Commissioners, Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs), the Acting Director-General of the Electoral Institute, and other Directors of the Commission across the country.

The approval comes despite a directive from President Bola Tinubu ordering the withdrawal of police security personnel from VIPs and government officials. The decision has raised questions about protocol, security, and the independence of law enforcement in electoral matters, especially as preparations for upcoming elections intensify.

Documents obtained by SaharaReporters confirm that the continued deployment of police officers to INEC officials has been officially sanctioned by the IGP. No statement has yet been issued by the IGP’s office or the presidency regarding the matter.

#IGPControversy #Tinubu #INECSecurity #NigeriaPolitics

52 Suspects Arrested In Ekpoma For Looting, Vandalism — IGP

The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has disclosed that 52 suspects were arrested during the recent protests in Ekpoma, Edo State, for alleged looting and vandalism.

According to the IGP, residents of Ekpoma and neighbouring communities had taken to the streets to protest the rising cases of kidnapping in the area. However, the protests were reportedly hijacked by criminal elements who engaged in the destruction of property and looting, leading to the arrests.

The police leadership reiterated its commitment to protecting the rights of peaceful protesters while warning that criminal acts would be dealt with in accordance with the law.

#EdoState #NigeriaPolice #SecurityUpdate #NigeriaNews

My Statement on Today’s Court Proceedings Regarding the #FreeNnamdiKanuNow Protest

Earlier today, alongside my legal team led by Marshal D. F. Abubakar, I addressed the progress of our civil lawsuit arising from my illegal arrest, trial, and unlawful detention at Kuje Prison following the #FreeNnamdiKanuNow protest of October 20, 2025.

This lawsuit seeks a public apology, financial compensation, and enforcement actions against the illegally appointed Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, the Nigeria Police Force, and the Minister of Justice/Attorney General of the Federation for their unlawful actions.

At today’s court sitting, the Nigeria Police Force neither appeared nor was represented by counsel. The presiding judge, Justice Umar, formally noted their absence and ruled that the case is ready to proceed to the next stage.

At the next adjourned date, we will adopt our written submissions, after which the court will fix a definite date for judgment.

We remain firm and committed to demanding justice and accountability for the unlawful treatment of peaceful protesters during that historic protest.

#FreeNnamdiKanuNow #JusticeForProtesters #RuleOfLaw #EndPoliceAbuse #HumanRights #Accountability #NigeriaJustice #PeacefulProtest

Illegal Arrest: Court Tell Make Dem Serve IGP, AGF for Sowore N1.2bn Human Rights Case

Federal High Court for Abuja don order make hearing notice reach Police IG, Kayode Egbetokun, and Attorney-General, Lateef Fagbemi, for human rights case wey activist Omoyele Sowore file. Sowore dey demand ₦1.2 billion, accuse police of illegal arrest, detention and assault.

The matter start after police rearrest am for Kuje Magistrate Court on October 23, 2025, just after dem grant am bail, because of im involvement for #FreeNnamdiKanuNow protest. Sowore talk say im arrest over peaceful protest break im rights to freedom, movement and human dignity under Nigerian Constitution.

Justice Umar order make dem properly serve the defendants and adjourn case till March 10, 2026 for hearing. Sowore lawyer, Abubakar Marshal, complain say none of the defendants show for court, accuse police of acting with impunity.

Marshal insist say protest na legal right, say person wey no commit crime no suppose face arrest or detention. The suit seek ₦1bn punitive damages, ₦200m extra damages, public apology and retraction, stressing say the case no be only for Sowore but to protect Nigerians’ right to peaceful protest.

Is IGP Kayode Egbetokun Headed to Prison? Can Nigeria’s Police Chief Be Jailed for Defying Court Orders Over SARS Abduction and Disappearance of Lagos Resident?

Is Nigeria’s top police officer facing imprisonment for ignoring a federal court? The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, now risks being committed to Kuje Correctional Centre after allegedly refusing to comply with binding court orders concerning the abduction and disappearance of John Chukwuemeka Anozie, a Lagos resident taken from his Lekki home in June 2017.

Legal action was initiated by Vincent Adodo, counsel to Anozie’s wife, who has filed contempt proceedings against the IGP for what he describes as persistent disobedience of a subsisting judgment of the Federal High Court, Abuja. The ruling, delivered on September 24, 2025 by Justice Binta Nyako, arose from a Freedom of Information (FOI) suit filed by Mrs. Nnenna Anozie after years of unanswered requests for investigation records relating to her husband’s disappearance.

In its judgment, the court ordered the IGP—who failed to file any defence—to produce for prosecution former officers of the now-defunct Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) from Akwuzu, Anambra State, accused of abducting Anozie. The court further awarded ₦2 million in damages against the IGP for refusing to release investigation reports and directed him to forward both the police investigation file and the legal opinion recommending prosecution to the Attorney General of the Federation.

The judgment explicitly noted that police authorities had failed to prosecute the officers despite an internal legal opinion recommending criminal charges. Those listed include ASP Anthony Obiozor Ikechukwu, Sgt. Uzochukwu Emeana, John Eze, Oriole (aka T-Boy), and SP Sunday Okpe.

Yet months after being served with the court order in October 2025, the IGP has allegedly neither prosecuted the officers nor paid the ₦2 million damages. In response, Anozie’s lawyer triggered enforcement by serving the police chief with Form 48 (Notice of Consequences of Disobedience) and Form 49 (Notice of Committal to Prison)—legal steps that can result in imprisonment for contempt of court.

Court filings now show that Mrs. Anozie is seeking an order to commit the IGP to prison until he obeys the court by releasing certified investigation reports, transmitting the case file to the Attorney General, handing over the indicted officers for prosecution, and paying the damages awarded.

The matter is scheduled for hearing on February 9, 2025, when the IGP is expected to “show cause” why he should not be jailed for contempt.

Beyond the personal tragedy of a family still searching for answers after eight years, the case raises a larger constitutional question: Can Nigeria’s most powerful police officer be held personally accountable for disobeying court orders? The outcome could set a critical precedent for rule of law, police accountability, and victims’ access to justice in cases of alleged state abuse.

As the hearing approaches, legal observers, human rights advocates, and the public are watching closely: Will the judiciary enforce its authority against the nation’s police chief—or will impunity prevail once again?

IGP Olukayode Egbetokun Deploys DIG Gumel, Reassigns 17 Commissioners to Strengthen Police Operations Across Nigeria

The Inspector-General of Police, Olukayode Adeolu Egbetokun, has deployed newly promoted Deputy Inspector-General DIG Mohammed Usaini Gumel to lead the Force Intelligence Department and reassigned 17 Commissioners of Police to strategic commands, departments, and formations nationwide. The redeployments, announced by Force PRO CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, aim to enhance operational capacity, leadership, public safety, and service delivery within the Nigeria Police Force. Key appointments include CP Aina Adesola to Delta State, CP Umar Mohammed Hajedia to Kebbi State, CP Iyamah Daniel Edobor to Bayelsa State, and several senior officers to specialized units like anti-human trafficking, maritime, and community policing. Officers were charged to demonstrate professionalism and ethical conduct in their new assignments.

#NigeriaPolice #IGPDeployments #DIGGumel #PoliceReassignments #PublicSafety #LawEnforcement

IGP Kayode Egbetokun Orders Commissioners to Redeploy Withdrawn VIP Police Escorts to Anti-Crime Operations Nationwide, Places SPU Bases Under State Command Control

Nigeria’s Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has directed all state Commissioners of Police to take immediate control of Special Protection Unit (SPU) bases in their jurisdictions and redeploy officers withdrawn from VIP protection duties to frontline anti-crime operations across the country. The order was conveyed in an internal wireless message issued by the Department of Operations (DOPS) at Force Headquarters, Abuja, dated January 5, 2026, and obtained by SaharaReporters.

According to the directive, all personnel previously assigned to VIP escort services are to be reassigned to conventional policing roles aimed at crime prevention, detection, and response, reflecting a force-wide strategy to strengthen operational capacity amid rising insecurity nationwide. Commissioners were also instructed to organise training programmes for redeployed officers “where necessary” to ensure effectiveness in their new assignments.

In addition, each state command is required to submit a comprehensive list of the affected personnel to Force Headquarters for documentation, oversight, and monitoring, while acknowledging receipt of the directive for “strict compliance.”

The move places SPU bases under the direct command of state police formations and signals a significant policy shift away from elite protection toward bolstering routine policing. Analysts view the decision as part of broader efforts by the police leadership to optimise manpower deployment, curb crime more aggressively, and restore public confidence in internal security operations across Nigeria.

Nigerian Police Officers Caught Demanding ₦50,000 Bribe Over Tinted Glass Permit at Anambra Checkpoint

A viral video has exposed Nigerian police officers allegedly demanding a ₦50,000 bribe from a motorist at the Nise checkpoint in Anambra State over a tinted glass permit. The video, shared by activist Somto Okonkwo (@General_Somto) on X (formerly Twitter), shows the driver stating that his documents were in order, but the officers insisted on payment despite a court-ordered hold on tinted glass enforcement.

One officer is heard refusing to release the driver without payment, saying he would ignore calls to the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun. The incident has reignited public concerns over extortion and misconduct by security operatives at road checkpoints.

As of the report, the Anambra State Police Command had not issued an official statement, while social media users continue to call for investigation and disciplinary action against the officers involved.

Watch Video Here

Nigerian Police Suspend Tinted Glass Permit Enforcement as Court Adjourns Case to January 20

The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has paused enforcement of the Tinted Glass Permit policy nationwide after a Federal High Court issued an interim order restraining the force. The policy, initially set to resume on January 2, 2026, had been announced on December 15, 2025, citing public safety and security concerns.

The Police have formally applied to vacate the interim order and have raised preliminary objections in court, which has adjourned the matter to January 20, 2026, for further proceedings. In the meantime, enforcement remains suspended. IGP Kayode Egbetokun emphasized the Police’s commitment to the rule of law and assured the public that updates and guidance will be provided following the court’s decision.

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#TintedGlassPolicy #NigeriaPolice #CourtAdjournment #NPF #PublicSafety #RuleOfLaw #NigeriaNews #SecurityUpdate

IGP Monitoring Unit Led by CP Akin Fakorede Accused of Assaulting Journalists and Workers During Abuja Estate Protest Amid Land Dispute


Operatives of the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Monitoring Unit, allegedly led by CP Akin Fakorede, have been accused of violently attacking journalists and workers of Simonis Ventures Nigeria Limited during a peaceful protest at an estate site in Wuye, Abuja. The incident reportedly occurred on Tuesday afternoon as company staff gathered to protest what they described as the unlawful occupation of their land by armed police officers, despite a court judgment affirming Simonis Ventures as the rightful owner.

According to the company, the protest was meant to precede a press briefing on the alleged illegal takeover when hoodlums, said to be acting with police backing, attacked protesters. Several workers sustained injuries, while two journalists covering the event were reportedly assaulted and later taken for emergency medical treatment. Video footage of the incident shows protesters fleeing as police operatives charged at them.

Simonis Ventures accused the IGP Monitoring Unit of disregarding judicial authority, facilitating land grabbing, and operating without transparency, alleging that officers were stationed on the property without legal justification, refused to identify themselves, and declined press inquiries. The company described the deployment as a misuse of police resources amid national insecurity and called it a threat to public confidence in the Nigeria Police Force.

The firm has urged the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, to order the immediate withdrawal of officers from the site, initiate an internal investigation into the Monitoring Unit’s role, and uphold the court verdict. The allegations come despite repeated directives by the IGP warning officers to stay away from civil land disputes, stressing that police involvement in such matters undermines the integrity of the Force.

“We’re Living in Fear”: Anambra Widow Petitions IGP Over Alleged Police Intimidation, Family Harassment, Property Fraud and Circumstances Surrounding Husband’s Death
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An Anambra State widow, Mrs. Ebere Chibueze, has petitioned the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, alleging years of intimidation, harassment, and abuse of police authority by her late husband’s relatives and their associates before and after his death. She claims her husband, Mr. Nnamdi Chibueze—who reportedly changed his surname due to family hostility—was repeatedly arrested on what she describes as false criminal allegations, leading to severe health complications that culminated in kidney failure and his death in October 2025.

The widow further alleges that family members and a businessman obstructed access to property documents needed to fund her husband’s overseas medical treatment, actions she says directly denied him a chance to survive. Following his death, she claims police intimidation escalated, including the arrest of her elderly mother days before the burial and attempts to disrupt funeral arrangements. While a family representative acknowledged long-standing internal conflicts and supported a full investigation, he said he could not independently verify claims of fraud or police misconduct. Mrs. Chibueze has called for a comprehensive investigation and accountability, stating that she and her children now live in fear for their safety.

Tinubu Urges National Assembly to Summon IGP Kayode Egbetokun Over State Police Plan, Says Safeguards Needed

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed the National Assembly to summon the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, to address concerns surrounding the proposed creation of state police in Nigeria. Speaking at the APC National Executive Committee meeting in Abuja, Tinubu stressed that while state police is a necessary step to tackle terrorism, banditry, and rising insecurity, lawmakers must put strong safeguards in place to prevent abuse of power. The president reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to decentralised policing, as debates over state police continue to gain momentum nationwide amid worsening security challenges.

IGP Monitoring Unit Head Fakorede Accused of Supporting Enugu Govt Land Grab in Abuja Despite Court Orders

A representative of Simonis Ventures Nigeria Limited has accused CP Akin Fakorede, head of the IGP Monitoring Unit, of colluding with the Enugu State Government to seize land in Abuja, despite a 2016 court ruling confirming Simonis Ventures’ ownership. In a video, the company’s spokesperson alleged that forged documents were used to undermine the court verdict and that police officers were deployed to support the Enugu authorities in defiance of Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun’s directives against police involvement in civil land disputes. Court documents and legal letters confirm that Simonis Ventures holds a valid Certificate of Occupancy and the 2016 judgment remains binding. The company is calling on the IGP to intervene and ensure compliance with the law.

RULAAC Petitions Police IG Over Death Of Enugu Resident Nnamdi Chidi, Demands Independent And Transparent Probe

The Rule of Law and Accountability Advocacy Centre (RULAAC) has petitioned the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, seeking an independent and transparent investigation into the death of Nnamdi Chidi in Agunese Mmaku Community, Awgu Local Government Area of Enugu State. The group said conflicting narratives surrounding the circumstances of Chidi’s death have raised serious concerns about police accountability, investigative integrity and public trust. RULAAC urged the police to authorise a fresh forensic and medical review, authenticate witness statements and audio-visual evidence, and examine the conduct of all police units involved to ensure justice, restore public confidence and prevent further communal tension.

POLICE SMASH CRIMINAL RINGS, ARREST 22 IN MULTI-STATE OPERATIONS, RECOVERED VEHICLES AND MOTORCYCLES

The Nigeria Police Force Special Tactical Squad has recorded major operational successes in a series of intelligence-driven raids carried out across several states of the federation, leading to the arrest of twenty-two suspects linked to armed robbery, kidnapping, banditry, car snatching, impersonation and drug trafficking.

According to a statement by the Force, operatives recovered six firearms, including AK-47 and AK-49 rifles, a sub-machine gun, pump-action gun and an LAR rifle, alongside assorted ammunition, vehicles, motorcycles, illicit drugs and other incriminating exhibits believed to have been used in the commission of various crimes.

A major breakthrough was recorded along the Kaduna–Abuja Expressway, where thirteen brand-new motorcycles were intercepted and a suspect linked to economic sabotage was arrested. In the Federal Capital Territory, operatives apprehended an escapee from the Kuje Custodial Centre as well as a suspect impersonating a police officer. Further arrests were also made in Edo, Lagos, Ogun and Nasarawa States.

Commending the operatives for their professionalism and dedication, the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, reaffirmed the Force’s unwavering commitment to protecting lives and property, dismantling criminal networks and sustaining nationwide security operations. He urged members of the public to continue providing timely and credible information to support ongoing policing efforts across the country.

Lagos Police Deploy Thousands Ahead of Christmas and New Year to Ensure Safety

The Lagos State Police Command has deployed thousands of officers across the state ahead of Christmas and New Year celebrations, following directives from the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun. The deployment includes conventional officers, tactical units, intelligence operatives, and marine officers to secure land and waterways, combat crime, and maintain traffic flow. Special attention will be given to public spaces such as markets, motor parks, nightclubs, places of worship, and recreational centres. The move aims to protect lives, property, and ensure a safe festive season for residents and visitors.

#LagosPolice #ChristmasSecurity #NewYearSecurity #LagosState #Nigeria

IGP Egbetokun Approves Mobilisation of 700+ Police Officers to Counter-Terrorism Unit

The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has sanctioned the mobilisation of over 700 police officers across Nigeria, including the Federal Capital Territory and Police Mobile Force, to strengthen the Counter-Terrorism Unit (CTU). The move comes amid ongoing threats from terrorism, banditry, and kidnappings. The internal police signal, dated December 18, 2025, detailed the deployment numbers for each state, with the FCT Command contributing the highest at 121 officers. Senior police formations were instructed to release personnel to proceed with the deployment, underscoring a nationwide effort to bolster counter-terrorism capabilities.

#NigeriaPolice
#CounterTerrorismUnit
#IGPEgbetokun

Nigeria Police Chief Orders Nationwide Shake-Up, Reassigns Dozens of Senior Officers

The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has directed an extensive redeployment of senior officers across Nigeria, affecting dozens of Assistant Commissioners of Police (ACPs) and Superintendents of Police (SUPOLs). The postings, effective January 1, 2026, cover Mobile Police units, Interpol, Anti-Human Trafficking, Maritime, Disaster Management, Intelligence, Finance, and specialized tactical units like Bomb Disposal, K-9, and Mounted Police. Key area commands and state commands have also been reshuffled to strengthen operational efficiency. The IGP emphasized that officers must strictly adhere to the Force’s disciplinary hierarchy and not wear higher ranks until officially promoted.

#NigeriaPolice
#PoliceShakeUp

IGP REAFFIRMS CRIMES FIGHTING VISION AT SENIOR OFFICERS ELEVATION
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‎The Nigeria Police Force has reaffirmed its commitment to professionalism, service excellence and people-centred policing at a senior officers’ ceremony that highlighted the Force’s vision and mission.
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‎ Inspector general of police Kayode Egbetokun emphasized that career advancement within the NPF is a deliberate, transparent and merit-based process anchored on integrity, leadership capacity and proven service, rather than a routine administrative exercise.

NSCDC Operative Allegedly Shoots Five Traders At Jos Market As Rights Groups Petition IGP Egbetokun, Attorney-General For Justice

An operative of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has allegedly shot and injured five unarmed traders at the Bukuru Filin Sarki Market in Jos South Local Government Area of Plateau State, sparking outrage from civil society groups and community leaders. The incident reportedly occurred on Sunday, December 21, 2025, with the victims sustaining gunshot injuries while conducting lawful business activities. In response, human rights organisations and peace advocates have petitioned the NSCDC Commandant-General, Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun, Attorney-General of the Federation Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), and the National Human Rights Commission, demanding the arrest and prosecution of the officer involved. The petition describes the shooting as a gross abuse of power and a violation of constitutional and international human rights laws, calling for an independent investigation, compensation for victims, and institutional reforms to prevent future abuses.