By Damilare Adeleye
The Nigeria Police Force has distanced IGP Kayode Egbetokun, Inspector-General of Police, from land dispute involving one Ms. Bilikisu Ishaqu Aliyu and the Yesufu family in Guzape District, Abuja.
The Police force claimed that the foremost TV station, AIT, in their publication dated 10th July, 2024, titled ‘Yesufu Family Seeks Justice As Police Authorities Fail to Investigate Bilikisu Ishaqu’, distorted the facts in the case in question and thus misled members of the public.
ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, Force Public Relations Officer, clarified that the Police boss should not be dragged into civil matters such as this land dispute, noting that Police’s role is primarily to maintain law and order and ensure public safety, and that it only intervenes in disputes when there are clear criminal elements involved.
“Similarly, the assertion that the police are at odds with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is unfounded, laughable, and without merit. The NPF maintains a cooperative and professional relationship with the EFCC, and there are no conflicts between the two agencies on this extant case or any other matter whatsoever. Any suggestion to the contrary is a blatant attempt to mislead the public and create unnecessary tension between both agencies.
“It is also vital to make it clear that if the parties involved in the dispute in question feel aggrieved and require the intervention of the IGP, there are proper channels to follow. Instead of resorting to media blackmail and attempting to malign the IGP’s reputation or ridiculing the Police institution, the concerned parties should make an official contact through the appropriate channels. The NPF is always open to addressing legitimate concerns and providing assistance where necessary, provided the correct procedures are followed.
“The Nigeria Police therefore urges the public to disregard these unfounded claims in the media and continue to seek intervention from the police on issues capable of triggering crisis and violence, as the Force is committed to promoting peace, unity and progress in our dear country.”