The Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, has warned officers to stop using the name of the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, in corrupt practices, noting that such an act is a criminal offence.
The FPRO gave the warning this in a statement on Wednesday, titled, “Dropping IGP’s Name For Corrupt Practices, Extortion In Investigation Unfair, Criminal -FPRO.”
He added that the IGP had issued a strong warning against name-dropping and extortion by officers.
According to the statement, Egbetokun condemned officers using his name for extortion, highlighting the damage it did to his reputation and the force’s image.
The statement reads: “In an effort to maintain the highest standards of integrity within the Nigeria Police Force, the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, has sternly condemned any form of extortion and issued a clear warning to all officers against using or dropping his name for such nefarious activities.
“The IGP expressed deep concern, emphasizing that such actions tarnish the reputation of his person and the Police Force, thereby eroding public trust.
“The IGP emphasised that any officer found guilty of leveraging his name for fraudulent activities or extortion will face severe disciplinary measures.
“He then urged officers to uphold transparency and professionalism, reiterating that the integrity of the Nigeria Police Force is at stake if such is not checked.”
In the statement, Egbetokun further urged the public to report any attempts to exploit his name, stating the role citizens played in fighting corruption within the system.
The PUNCH reported in September 2023 that the NPF warned the public about activities of some individuals exploiting the names of high-ranking police officers, including that of the IGP, to intimidate and coerce others on behalf of individuals who were in police custody over involvement in criminal activities.
