Police refute land dispute claims against IGP
Police refute land dispute claims against IGP
Abdullateef Fowewe
The Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun has been cleared of involvement in land dispute allegations that involved Ms. Bilikisu Ishaqu Aliyu and the Yesufu family.
The police in a statement by the Force Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi on Sunday stated that the IGP has no role in civil land cases, responding to claims that he failed to investigate a specific dispute.
The police in the press release emphasised that such matters should be handled through appropriate legal channels rather than through media accusations.
The release established, “The Nigeria Police Force has noted with amusement the recent allegations made against the Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, in connection with a land dispute involving one Ms. Bilikisu Ishaqu Aliyu and the Yesufu family. We find it necessary to address these unfounded claims and provide clarity on the matter, more so that the claims painted the police as an irresponsible, meddlesome, and lawless agency.
“It will be recalled that the AIT in their publication of 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 the public.
“First and foremost, it is important to emphasize that the IGP shouldn’t be dragged into civil matters such as this land dispute. The NPF’s role is primarily to maintain law and order and ensure public safety. The police only intervene 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 according to the statement however, advised the public to disregard the unfounded claims in the media and continue to seek intervention from the police on issues capable of initiating crisis and violence, as the Force is committed to promoting peace, unity, and progress in our dear country.
