The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has responded with amusement and concern to recent allegations involving the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, in a land dispute between Ms. Bilikisu Ishaqu Aliyu and the Yesufu family.
The allegations, which were published by AIT on July 10, 2024, under the title “Yesufu Family Seeks Justice As Police Authorities Fail to Investigate Bilikisu Ishaqu,” have been labeled as distortions of the facts by the NPF.
In an official statement, the NPF emphasized that the IGP should not be implicated in civil matters such as land disputes, highlighting that the primary role of the police is to maintain law and order and ensure public safety. The police intervene in disputes only when there are clear criminal elements involved.
The NPF also addressed assertions of a conflict between the police and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), describing such claims as unfounded and laughable.
The NPF assured the public that it maintains a cooperative and professional relationship with the EFCC, and there is no conflict between the two agencies regarding this case or any other matter.
The police urged individuals involved in the land dispute to follow proper channels if they seek intervention from the IGP, rather than resorting to media blackmail or attempting to tarnish the IGP’s reputation. The NPF remains open to addressing legitimate concerns through appropriate procedures.
The NPF called on the public to disregard the unfounded claims and continue to seek police intervention on issues that could trigger crisis and violence, reaffirming the Force’s commitment to promoting peace, unity, and progress in Nigeria.
LV