By Nkechi Eze
The Nigeria Police Force has cautioned strongly, individuals involving the Inspector General of Police (IGP) in land disputes and other civil matters. The police emphasized that the IGP’s role is to maintain law and order, ensure public safety, and intervene in disputes only when there are clear criminal elements involved.
This warning comes after allegations surfaced about the IGP’s involvement in a land dispute between Ms. Bilikisu Ishaqu Aliyu and the Yesufu family. The police have debunked these claims, stating that the IGP has no business interfering with land cases or other civil matters.
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.
The Inspector General of Police (IGP) dismissed the allegations as unfounded and malicious, a statement made available to newsmen, through the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi states; First and foremost, it is important to emphasize that the IGP shouldn’t be dragged into civil matters such as this land dispute.
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 Force implores the public to ignore baseless allegations circulating in the media and instead, continue to reach out to the police for help in resolving issues that could lead to conflict and violence. The police remain dedicated to fostering peace, unity, and progress in Nigeria.
