Nigerians have been cautioned on the some individuals parading themselves as either police officers or very close to the Nigeria Police Force.
Mr. Kayode Adeola Egbetokun the Inspector General of Police is deeply concerned about recent reports concerning the activities of certain individuals who are operating as middlemen, acting as negotiators on behalf of individuals involved in criminal activities currently in Police custody. These individuals have been exploiting the names of high-ranking Police officers, including that of the Inspector-General of Police to intimidate and coerce others.
He explained that all Nigerians to be vigilant and exercise discernment when approached by anyone using the names of senior Police officers, as this practice not only undermines trust in the law enforcement agencies but also poses a significant threat to the integrity of Nigeria's justice system.
Furthermore, the police boss wish to emphasize the police commitment to the high standards and principles upon which the Nigeria Police Force is built. Then strongly caution it's members own who may consider colluding with these middlemen to compromise the standards of the force, to refrain from such actions immediately. It is essential to highlight that any officer found engaging in such activities will face severe consequences. The Nigeria Police Force maintains a strict zero-tolerance policy towards any actions that could tarnish the reputation or compromise the administration of justice.
In addition to the issues of name-dropping and impersonation, he also wish to draw the public's attention to the fraudulent activities of individuals who parade themselves as Police auctioneers. These fraudsters are not affiliated with the Nigeria Police Force in any official capacity. He emphasized that the police have duly registered auctioneers who follow established procedures for Conducting public auctions. Any deviation from these procedures is unlawful, then urge the public to be vigilant against fraudulent practices.
Egbetokun reaffirm the police commitment to upholding the highest standards of integrity and professionalism within the Nigeria Police Force. Then urging all Nigerians to have faith in the country's justice system and to report any suspicious activities to the appropriate authorities, most especially, their already published contacts.
"We are determined to protect the rights and interests of all citizens and to maintain the trust that you place in us as a responsible and civil law enforcement agency" he said.