No Anger In Police Over Egbetokun’s Send-Off, Says Integrity Youth Alliance
The Integrity Youth Alliance (IYA) has dismissed as false and mischievous a report published by the online platform Sahara Reporters claiming there is anger within the Nigeria Police Force over plans to organise a low-key pulling-out parade for former Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun.
In a statement issued in Abuja by its National Coordinator, Kelvin Adegbenga, the group described the publication titled “EXCLUSIVE: Anger In Nigeria Police Force As IGP Disu Plans Low-Key Send-Off Parade For Embattled Predecessor, Egbetokun” as misleading and deliberately fabricated.
According to the Alliance, there is no discontent within the police hierarchy over the proposed ceremonial send-off, stressing that the claim of anger among officers was entirely baseless.
The group said the suggestion that Egbetokun left office under a cloud of scandal was untrue, insisting that the former police chief exited office honourably after serving the country with dedication and distinction.
Adegbenga explained that a pulling-out parade is a long-established tradition in the police institution, organised to honour retiring Inspectors-General in recognition of their years of service and leadership.
“It is therefore proper and well within institutional tradition for the former IGP to be accorded the ceremonial pulling-out parade,” the statement said.
The Alliance also rejected allegations in the report that Egbetokun was forced out of office amid claims of financial mismanagement, describing the accusations as reckless and unsupported by any evidence.
It challenged the unnamed sources cited in the publication to publicly provide proof of the alleged misappropriation of police funds rather than relying on anonymous claims.
The group further dismissed insinuations that the ceremony was part of a “soft landing” arrangement, noting that Egbetokun’s record in office speaks for itself and does not require such characterisation.
The statement also refuted suggestions of a strained relationship between the incumbent Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, and his predecessor, maintaining that both leaders maintain a cordial and professional relationship.
The Alliance added that claims the ceremony would be conducted secretly without the usual protocol were unfounded, noting that relevant authorities are aware of the arrangements.
It further suggested that the narrative being circulated might have originated from disgruntled elements attempting to create disaffection within the police leadership.
The Integrity Youth Alliance therefore urged the public to disregard what it described as sensational and inaccurate claims published by Sahara Reporters, stressing that the Nigeria Police Force remains a disciplined institution guided by tradition, honour and professionalism.
The group warned that attempts by individuals or media platforms to sow discord within the police institution would ultimately fail.