Police debunks alleged order by IGP for Nigerians to attack officers during stop and search

The Nigeria Police Force has described as false a report alleging that the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has directed Nigerians to physically attack police officers during stop-and-search operations.

A blog known as Celebrity Blogger, had posted on its X handle, @Celebrityblo, that the IGP had encouraged Nigerians to assault and beat up policemen who ask to check their phones during stop and check operations.

“Breaking News: Beat up any policeman who asks to check your phone, stone him if he has a gun. Make sure to fight back because it is your right to have a phone.
– Inspector General encourages Nigerians,” the blog wrote.

But in a statement posted on the X platform on Monday, Force Public Relations Officer (FPRO), Olumuyiwa Adejobi, described the claim as baseless and a deliberate attempt to spread misinformation.

He said the IGP had not issued any directive encouraging violence against law enforcement officers.

Adejobi wrote: “The Nigeria Police Force wishes to address a viral fake news story that has emerged, claiming that Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, PhD, NPM., has instructed citizens to physically assault and throw stones at police officers who request to search their phones.

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“This claim is entirely false and has no basis in reality. The IGP has not issued any such directive encouraging violence against law enforcement officers.

“Instead, he has called on citizens to report instances of police misconduct through appropriate channels. This approach underscores the importance of accountability and maintaining the rule of law, rather than resorting to violent actions.

“Members of the public are urged to make use of the following Police helplines & contacts to lay complaints whenever necessary: +2347056792065, +2349133333785, +2349133333786, #PoliceNG on X, #ngpolice on Facebook, and #nigeriapoliceforce on Instagram.

“Citizens can also contact us by mail through; [email protected] and reach us through the police website at npf.gov.ng

“Members of the public are advised to remain vigilant against misinformation and verify information through credible sources.

“The Nigeria Police Force remains committed to fostering a cooperative and trustful relationship between the police and the communities they serve.”

IGP NEVER ORDERED BEATING, ATTACKS ON POLICEMEN DURING STOP & SEARCH. IT IS A LIE – FPRO.

The Nigeria Police Force wishes to address a viral fake news story that has emerged, claiming that Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM., has instructed… pic.twitter.com/OFffFW1wci

— Prince Olumuyiwa Adejobi (@Princemoye1) December 22, 2024

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