Protest: Police disclaims viral social media message featuring IGP

Protest: Police disclaims viral social media message featuring IGP

Abdullateef Fowewe

The Nigeria Police Force has clarified that a circulating social media message alongside a photo of Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, did not originate from their office.

On Sunday a WhatsApp message circulated the social featuring the IG picture with the caption, “If you are going to join any protest next week or so ever, it is good but ask yourself this question:

1. Why is Lagos always their target? How about starting from your State?”

Reacting to the circular, the Force Public Relations Officer, Muyiwa Adejobi said the message does not represent the ideals or views of the Nigeria Police Force.

He said, “The Nigeria Police Force wishes to inform the general public that a message currently circulating alongside a picture of the Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, on WhatsApp and other social media platforms, did not originate from the police. The message, which poses several questions and opinions about protests, does not essentially represent the ideals or views of the Nigeria Police Force. We urge everyone to disregard this message and other similar contents purpotedly from the NPF as the Force makes all communications via its official channels.

“The NPF is committed to maintaining peace and order throughout the country. We do not endorse any message that could incite division, violence, or destruction. We encourage all Nigerians to engage in peaceful and constructive activities that would contribute to the progress and unity of our dear country.

“Additionally, the NPF expressly warns against the spread of misinformation, disinformation, fake news, or mischievous recycled contents which are capable of causing a breakdown of law and order as such actions are criminal and punishable under the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention) Act, 2024 and other extant laws in Nigeria.”