By : Adeosun Ewatomi
Chidi Odinkalu, a self-proclaimed lawyer and teacher, has criticized the Nigeria Police Force and its leadership, particularly the Inspector General of Police (IGP), for their alleged partisanship in the political affairs of Rivers State. Odinkalu claims that the IGP took sides in the political contest between the incumbent governor and his predecessor, who is now the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory.
However, the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, has provided clarification on the role of the police in this matter. He explained that the police were served with an order of injunction by the Federal High Court, barring them from participating in the local government elections in Rivers State. Subsequently, the Rivers State High Court issued a counter-order directing the police to provide security during the elections. The IGP, committed to operating within the legal framework, sought legal advice from the Force Legal section and communicated the same to the Governor of Rivers State, advising him to abide by the ruling of the Federal High Court.
The author of this response refutes Odinkalu's claims, stating that the IGP, Kayode Egbetokun, is a highly qualified and experienced police officer with extensive educational and professional credentials. Egbetokun has attended various training courses and conferences, both in Nigeria and internationally, and has held several senior positions within the police force, including Chief Security Officer to the Governor of Lagos State, Commander of the Rapid Response Squad, and Commissioner of Police in various states.
The author emphasizes that Egbetokun's appointment as IGP was based on merit, and the misinformation and unwarranted outbursts from the Executive Governor of Rivers State were unfair and uncalled for. The author also highlights the comprehensive training provided to police personnel ahead of the 2023 and 2024 elections, demonstrating the force's commitment to professionalism and neutrality in the political process.
In conclusion, the author strongly refutes Odinkalu's allegations and asserts that the Nigeria Police Force, under the leadership of IGP Egbetokun, is committed to fulfilling its duties of crime prevention, law and order preservation, and the protection of life and property, without any partisan interference in the political affairs of the country.
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