The Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, revealed on Monday that the police are actively tracking a suspect linked to the Sudan crisis, who is now in Nigeria and allegedly mobilizing efforts to destabilize the country. While the IG did not disclose the suspect’s name, he noted that the individual was traced to a shop within the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) building, which the suspect was using as a front.
Egbetokun clarified that the police raid at the NLC was not aimed at the organization’s leadership but was focused on the suspect’s activities. The raid led to the recovery of significant documents from the shop, further strengthening the investigation.
Addressing concerns about the police’s opposition to hardship protests, the IG explained that the decision was based on intelligence indicating that certain individuals intended to use the protests to destabilize Nigeria. He emphasized that some of these individuals, including foreigners, have already left the country, while others are still being pursued by the police.
Egbetokun drew parallels to the ENDSARS protests, warning that social media-mobilized protests could easily turn violent, as they attract a broad and unpredictable crowd, including potential criminals.
On the issue of protecting farmers, the IG announced that the police have initiated farm patrols in the North East to help farmers regain confidence and return to their fields. He acknowledged the complex and interconnected nature of Nigeria’s security, economic, political, and environmental challenges, stressing the need for a holistic approach to addressing them.
Regarding the presence of “bad eggs” within the police force, Egbetokun admitted that the issue reflects broader societal problems. However, he assured the public that efforts are ongoing to identify and remove these bad elements from the police. He concluded by stating that the quality of the police force is a reflection of the society it serves, and the force is committed to improving its standards.
You tackle topics with such finesse, it’s like watching a skilled chef at work. Serving up knowledge with flair!