The Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has issued a stern condemnation of the increasing allegations of extortion involving officers across various regions of Nigeria.
He specifically highlighted a recent case from Zone 16 Zonal Headquarters in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, where officers, identified as ASP Emmanuel Ubong, Inspector Nse Okon, Inspector Adiewere Collins, and Inspector Kuromare Marine, were accused of extorting N10 million from local youths.
In a statement on Friday, Force Spokesperson Muyiwa Adejobi disclosed that the money had been recovered through efforts led by the new Assistant Inspector-General of Police overseeing Zone 16.
The officers involved have been detained and are now undergoing an orderly room trial. "The Nigeria Police Force, under the leadership of IGP Egbetokun, maintains a zero-tolerance policy for any act of corruption and police misconduct. The Force takes every allegation of extortion and abuse of power extremely seriously,” Adejobi affirmed.
The Inspector General has further assured the public that all allegations against erring officers will be thoroughly investigated.
“In pursuit of restorative justice, the Inspector General of Police has mandated severe consequences for any officer, no matter how highly ranked, found culpable, acting as a deterrent to those who may seek to compromise the integrity of the Force,” Adejobi added.
The public is encouraged to use designated police helplines for lodging complaints when necessary.
