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

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

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.

Nigerian Court Asked to Jail IGP Egbetokun and Police Spokesperson Hundeyin Over Alleged Tinted Glass Policy Contempt

A Federal High Court in Warri, Delta State, has been urged to commit the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, Force PRO CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, and AIG Emmanuel Aina to prison for alleged contempt of court. The application was filed by Mr. John Aikpokpo-Martins on behalf of tinted vehicle owners, citing violation of a court order that restrained enforcement of the tinted glass permit policy. The court is being asked to nullify the police directive issued on December 15, 2025, and ensure the senior officers face consequences until they purge themselves of the alleged contempt.

NIGERIA POLICE FORCE CONDUCTS PRE-DEPLOYMENT TRAINING ON PREVENTING THE RECRUITMENT AND USE OF CHILDREN IN ARMED CONFLICT

The Nigeria Police Force has conducted a week-long Pre-Deployment Training on Preventing the Recruitment and Use of Children in Armed Conflict held at the Peacekeeping Hall, Force Headquarters, Abuja. The programme was declared open by the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, PhD, NPM, represented by AIG Aminu Baba Raji, AIG Training and Development and fully equipped officers with child-sensitive policing during internal security operations.

The programme was delivered in partnership with the Dallaire Institute for Children, Peace and Security, featuring international facilitators and certified Nigeria Police Trainers-of-Trainers. Officers were trained to detect and prevent child recruitment and to recognize that children associated with armed groups are primarily victims deserving confidentiality, empathy, and protection.

In his remarks, the IGP stressed that children remain among the most vulnerable in situations of violence and that their recruitment by armed actors whether as fighters, spies, or in other roles, is a grave violation of their rights and a threat to national security. He emphasized the need for officers deployed to conflict-affected areas to identify these risks and respond with professionalism, sensitivity, and gender-responsive approaches.

The training further strengthened existing Nigeria Police child-protection initiatives such as the Safer Schools Programme and POCACOV. A total of 25 officers were certified as ready for deployment to conflict-affected areas.

IGP Egbetokun expressed appreciation to the organizers for their support and assured that the Nigeria Police Force remains committed to upholding human rights and enhancing child-protection capacity through continuous training and strong partnerships.

CSP BENJAMIN HUNDEYIN, anipr, mipra
Force Public Relations Officer
Force Headquarters, Abuja
December 9, 2025

Amnesty International Condemns Arrest of Kano Anti-Corruption Lawyer Muhuyi Magaji by Police Acting on IGP’s Orders

Amnesty International has condemned the arrest of Kano lawyer and former PCACC chairman Muhuyi Magaji RiminGado, who was forcefully taken by heavily armed police officers allegedly on the orders of IGP Egbetokun. The organisation warns the action reflects shrinking civic space and political misuse of security forces in Nigeria.

IPI Blames Repeated Press Freedom Violations for Blacklisting Governors Bago, Eno, IGP Egbetokun

The International Press Institute (IPI) Nigeria has blacklisted Niger State Governor Mohammed Bago, Akwa Ibom Governor Umo Eno, and Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun over repeated attacks on press freedom and harassment of journalists. The decision, announced at the IPI Annual Conference in Abuja, cited multiple incidents including the shutdown of an independent radio station, arrests and assault of journalists, and the expulsion of reporters. IPI said the officials’ actions undermine democratic norms and warranted their inclusion in its “Book of Infamy.”

IPI Blacklists Niger, Akwa Ibom Governors and IGP Egbetokun for Media Repression in Nigeria



The International Press Institute (IPI) Nigeria has blacklisted Niger State Governor Umar Bago, Akwa Ibom Governor Umo Eno, and Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun as top offenders of media repression. Announced during the IPI Annual Conference in Abuja, the blacklist cites persistent harassment of journalists, unlawful shutdowns of media houses, and breach of press freedom across both states. Rights groups have repeatedly condemned the governors and police chief for actions seen as attacks on independent journalism.



#PressFreedom

#MediaRepression

#IPINigeria

IGP Egbetokun Orders Nationwide Arrest Of Police Officers Escorting VIPs/Celebrities Following Presidential Directive

IGP Confirms Withdrawal of 11,566 Police Personnel from VIP Escorts Nationwide

The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Dr. Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, on Thursday confirmed the withdrawal of 11,566 police personnel serving as Very Important Persons (VIP) escorts nationwide. IGP Egbetokun made the disclosure during a strategic meeting with senior police officers from the rank of Commissioner and above.

Nigerian Police Officers Ordered to Pay N2,000 Each for “Attitudinal Change” Book Dedicated to IGP Egbetokun

Nigerian police authorities have reportedly ordered all officers to pay N2,000 each to purchase a new book titled “Attitudinal Change Handbook for Nigeria Police Force,” which is dedicated to the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun. The payment is said to be mandatory with a deadline set for Thursday.

This comes after another directive earlier in August, where officers from the rank of ASP and above were required to pay N6,000 for the 2025 Annual POWA dues — an association led by the IGP’s wife, Mrs. Elizabeth Egbetokun.

These compulsory deductions have sparked concerns about transparency, welfare, and accountability within the Nigerian Police Force, especially as officers continue to complain of poor working conditions.

Tinubu Hails IGP Egbetokun on Birthday, Praises His Dedication to National Security

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has extended warm birthday wishes to the Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, applauding his unwavering commitment to safeguarding Nigeria.

In a statement released on Thursday by his spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, the President joined officers, ranks, and management of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) in celebrating the police chief.

“Under your leadership, the Nigeria Police Force continues to demonstrate courage and resilience in the face of evolving security challenges in our country and worldwide,” Tinubu noted.

He commended the IGP for his dedication to reforms, commitment to upholding law and order, and efforts to strengthen the integrity of the police force.

The President also offered prayers for renewed wisdom, strength, and courage for Egbetokun as he continues his service to the nation.

EXCLUSIVE: IGP Egbetokun Removes AIG Fayoade From Zone 2 Lagos Amid Succession Battle

Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has ordered the removal of AIG Adegoke Fayoade from the Zone 2 Command, Lagos, in what sources say is a move to block his possible emergence as the next police chief.

While the Force publicly linked the redeployment to “corruption allegations,” insiders told SaharaReporters it was driven by fears that political heavyweights, including APC leader Bisi Akande, were lobbying for Fayoade’s succession.

Fayoade, a respected officer and former aide-de-camp to Akande, has been seen as a strong contender for IGP. His removal from the strategic Lagos-Ogun command is widely viewed as an attempt to curtail his influence.

The shake-up comes as Egbetokun faces mounting criticism for refusing to retire despite reaching the mandatory age, fueling tensions over nepotistic promotions and deep divisions within the police force.

Sowore Asks Abuja Court To Dismiss ‘Defective’ Forgery, Cybercrime Charges, Wants IGP Egbetokun Sanctioned For Violating Police Act.

Sowore is facing allegations bordering on criminal defamation, forgery of a police wireless message, and cybercrime. However, through his counsel, Abubakar Marshal, he argued that the charges are “defective, incompetent, and an abuse of prosecutorial powers” in violation of the Nigeria Police Act and Section 174(3) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).

Human rights activist and publisher of SaharaReporters, Omoyele Sowore, has urged Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court in Abuja to strike out the charges brought against him by the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun.

Sowore is facing allegations bordering on criminal defamation, forgery of a police wireless message, and cybercrime. However, through his counsel, Abubakar Marshal, he argued that the charges are “defective, incompetent, and an abuse of prosecutorial powers” in violation of the Nigeria Police Act and Section 174(3) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).

At Wednesday’s proceedings, prosecution counsel Barrister Madaki informed the court that efforts to serve the second defendant, SaharaReporters, had been unsuccessful.

He explained that although the court granted an order for substituted service, the process of publishing the charges in national dailies had not yet been completed.

He, therefore, requested additional time to perfect the service.

Defence counsel Marshal, however, informed the court that he had filed a preliminary objection challenging the competence of the charges.

He insisted that the objection must be heard before any arraignment could take place.

Sowore Faces Court As IGP Egbetokun Drags Him Over Forgery, Cyberbullying

Human rights activist and SaharaReporters publisher Omoyele Sowore appeared at the Federal High Court, Abuja on Wednesday after being charged by the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, over alleged forgery and cyberbullying.

Sowore, who arrived with supporters, described the case as a political witch-hunt, branding Egbetokun an “illegal IGP” and accusing President Bola Tinubu’s government of using repressive tactics to silence critics.

The IGP alleged that Sowore forged and circulated a police wireless message to damage the force’s image. The court had earlier ordered six banks to release Sowore’s account details over alleged terrorism financing and money laundering.

Sowore dismissed the accusations as baseless, vowing not to be intimidated.

#Sowore #NigeriaPolitics #PressFreedom

Brief: IGP Egbetokun’s Special Promotion List Sparks Tension Over Alleged Favouritism

Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has submitted a list of over 30 senior officers—reportedly loyal to him—to the Police Service Commission (PSC) for special promotion, SaharaReporters has learned.

Among those nominated is Force PRO, Muyiwa Adejobi, recommended for promotion to Deputy Commissioner of Police. Others include his Principal Staff Officer, Ahmed Lateef, and aides believed to be close allies.

The move has triggered controversy within the force, with critics accusing Egbetokun of ethnic favouritism and a “provincial management style” that allegedly benefits mostly Yoruba officers.

The PSC is reviewing the list amid concerns over internal division. Meanwhile, promotions recently approved by the commission include 12 new AIGs, 16 Commissioners of Police, and over 200 officers across various ranks and special units.

Separately, former IGP Usman Alkali Baba criticised the current IGP’s handling of police welfare, especially the contributory pension scheme, describing it as a failure. He also questioned Egbetokun’s experience in police administration, claiming he has not sought input from predecessors.

I Can Never Accept This - Retired Police Officer Who Served For 35 Years Cries Out After He Received N2.8m As Gratuity.

In a video making the rounds online, the aggrieved officer said he served with the Edo state police command for 35 years and retired from service in July 2024.
Retired Police Officer
A retired police officer who served for 35 years has raised an alarm after receiving just N2.8 million as his gratuity.

In a video making the rounds online, the aggrieved officer said he served with the Edo state police command for 35 years and retired from service in July 2024.

He stated that he was called in this morning to come and sign for the disbursement of the lump sum of his gratuity put at N2, 870, 451 while his pension arrears was put at N706, 915.

‘’I retired as an SP Superintendent of Police in the Edo state police command 1st July 2024. For 35 years, that is unacceptable. For 35 years I served the Nigeria police.


"It is highly unacceptable. I will not sign. The Inspector General of Police, IGP Egbetokun, should find out why my money is so small. I cannot accept. I can never accept this, This is highly unacceptable.'' he said

This comes days after some retired police officers also took to the street to protest their unpaid pension and gratuity.

Police retirees’ planned welfare protest is attempt to discredit IGP Egbetokun’s achievements: PCRC
Mr Olaniyan said the proposed protest, disguised as a campaign for the rights of retired police personnel, was ill-timed.

The Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC) has dismissed the planned protest by some retired police officers as an attempt to discredit Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun.

PCRC national chairman, Ibrahim Olaniyan, stated this in a statement on Sunday in Abuja.

He said the proposed protest, disguised as a campaign for the rights of retired police personnel, was ill-timed and aimed at undermining the achievements of the IGP.

“It is a calculated attempt to distract and discredit the commendable progress being made by the IGP and by extension, the administration of President Bola Tinubu.

“The PCRC holds in high regard the integrity, discipline, and patriotism of our retired police officers.

“We believe they possess both the dignity and appropriate channels to express concerns without resorting to opportunistic or politically motivated demonstrations. They do not need intermediaries to speak on their behalf,” he said.

Mr Olaniyan said the PCRC at all levels had expressed its support for the IGP’s ongoing efforts to reform, reposition, and professionalise the Nigeria Police Force.

He said, “We categorically distance ourselves from, and condemn in its entirety, the proposed protest being reportedly organised by some individuals and groups purporting to act on behalf of retired police officers.

“As a critical bridge between the Nigeria Police Force and the communities it serves, the PCRC recognises the visible and impactful strides made by the current police leadership.

“These include advances in community policing, intelligence-led crime prevention, and improvements in police welfare, discipline, and accountability.”

He said the IGP had made significant improvements in respect for the rule of law, protection of human rights, promotion of transparency and accountability, and strengthening of collaboration with other security agencies.

The PCRC chairman stated that the current police leadership had also excelled in the strategic deployment of personnel and resources within the force to address security challenges in the country.

Mr Olaniyan enjoined well-meaning Nigerians, civil society groups, and public institutions to support the police force and its leadership to better protect lives and property.

He urged the IGP to remain focused and undeterred by the actions of those who seek to sow discord or erode public confidence.

Exposed: Alleged Embezzlement of Police Funds Under IGP Egbetokun Sparks Outrage

Recent reports have surfaced alleging that the quarterly allocation of ₦4 million (approximately $2,500) designated for state police commands has been misappropriated by the Police Management Team under the leadership of Inspector-General Kayode Egbetokun. This revelation has intensified concerns over financial mismanagement within the Nigeria Police Force.

Further compounding these concerns, an investigation highlighted that divisional police offices across the country operate on meager quarterly budgets ranging between ₦15,000 and ₦30,000. This inadequate funding reportedly hampers effective policing and may inadvertently foster environments where corruption can thrive. 

Adding to the controversy, the Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC) has been embroiled in a financial scandal. Members of the PCRC have called on IGP Egbetokun to investigate the National Chairman, Mogaji Olaniyan, over allegations of misappropriating funds totaling over ₦60 million. Despite petitions submitted, there has been little to no action taken on the matter.  

These allegations have led to public outcry, with citizens and civil society organizations demanding transparency and accountability within the police force. The hashtag #EgbetokunMustGo has been trending on social media platforms, reflecting the growing demand for leadership change.

#EgbetokunMustGo #PoliceReform #AccountabilityNow #EndCorruption