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Delta Police Arrest Suspected Cultists, Gunrunner; Recover Firearms And Ammunition

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Delta Police Arrest Suspected Cultists, Gunrunner; Recover Firearms And Ammunition

The Delta State Police Command has intensified its crackdown on violent crime, arresting suspected cultists and a gunrunner in two separate operations that led to the recovery of multiple firearms and ammunition across the state.

According to a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, the operations were carried out based on credible intelligence, underscoring the Command’s resolve to rid Delta State of cultism, armed robbery, and illegal arms trafficking.

Arrest of Suspected Cultists and Recovery of Firearms

On October 25, 2025, at about 6:00 p.m., a resident of Aviara community under Oleh Division reported that a video showing suspected Eiye cult activity had been shared in a WhatsApp group called “Real Men.” Following the report, the Divisional Police Officer, CSP Keme Osuluku, launched a discreet investigation that led to the arrest of one Donatus Odovo (29) of Aviara community.

Further investigation resulted in the arrest of Zachariah Okeh (36), alleged to be a leader of the Eiye confraternity in Aviara. During a search of Okeh’s residence, police recovered one locally made double-barrel gun, one single-barrel gun, and six live cartridges. Both suspects are currently in custody as investigations continue to track down other accomplices.

Arrest of Gunrunner and Recovery of Arms

In a related development, on October 27, 2025, at about 1:45 p.m., operatives of the Rapid Response Squad, while conducting stop-and-search along the Asaba–Benin Expressway, intercepted a Toyota RAV4 with registration number EPE 189 GN, driven by Mordi Emmanuel (45) of Asaba.

During a routine search, the officers discovered an envelope containing one fabricated Beretta pistol (breech No. 5182207) and four live rounds. Acting on the directive of the RRS Commander, CSP Nosa Alex, a follow-up search was conducted at the suspect’s residence, where one pump-action shotgun (breech No. 20-R-3921)** and **four live cartridges were recovered. The suspect and the exhibits are now in police custody for further investigation.

CP Abaniwonda Commends Officers’ Professionalism

The Commissioner of Police, CP Abaniwonda Olufemi, commended the professionalism of the officers involved and the vigilance of residents who provided actionable intelligence. He reiterated the Command’s zero tolerance for cultism, armed robbery, kidnapping, and illegal possession of firearms, emphasizing a commitment to intelligence-led policing and community collaboration.

The CP further urged members of the public to remain vigilant and continue providing timely, credible information to the police to help sustain the state’s safety.

NDLEA Decorates 15 Senior Officers, Honours Outstanding Personnel; Marwa Warns Against Drug-Themed Parties

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NDLEA Decorates 15 Senior Officers, Honours Outstanding Personnel; Marwa Warns Against Drug-Themed Parties

The Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Retd), has decorated 15 senior officers with new ranks and honoured several others for their exceptional performance and dedication to the agency’s ongoing fight against illicit drugs in Nigeria.

Speaking at the annual NDLEA Awards and Commendation Ceremony held today, Marwa said the event was organized to celebrate excellence, integrity, and selfless service among officers who have distinguished themselves in the line of duty.

“For the past four and a half years, we have upheld the tradition of hosting this commendation and award ceremony to appreciate and encourage our officers who have distinguished themselves in the line of duty. As such, this unique combination of promotions and awards makes today a momentous event,” Marwa stated.

The NDLEA boss described the occasion as one dedicated to “honouring courage, celebrating professionalism, and recognizing the sacrifices made by the brave men and women who serve on the front lines of our nation’s war against illicit drugs.”

Highlighting the agency’s achievements under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, Marwa disclosed that in the past 30 months, NDLEA has recorded **45,853 arrests**, seized **8.5 million kilograms of assorted illicit drugs**, and secured **9,263 convictions**. He further noted that **26,613 drug users** have undergone counselling and rehabilitation, while **9,848 sensitization campaigns** have been conducted nationwide.

Marwa reiterated that the Command Awards and Commendations remain a key motivation tool for officers, stressing that the agency’s reward system has strengthened morale and improved overall performance.

On emerging threats, the NDLEA chairman condemned the growing trend of drug-themed parties, referencing a recent incident in Lagos where a nightclub owner promoted an event openly encouraging drug use.

“We intervened in a brazen move by a club owner who advertised a drug party. Let it be clear: possession or use of drugs in persons or premises is an illegality in Nigeria. We will not allow a culture of impunity to take root,” Marwa warned.

He commended the Lagos State Command for its professional handling of the case and revealed that legal actions have commenced against the club involved. “We will make an example of this case to deter others. Club owners, hoteliers, and landlords must understand that their properties risk forfeiture if used for criminal drug activities,” he added.

Marwa also expressed gratitude to media partners for their sustained collaboration in amplifying the agency’s anti-drug campaigns and public enlightenment efforts, reaffirming NDLEA’s commitment to safeguarding Nigeria from the dangers of illicit drugs.

Fidelity Bank Champions Gymnastics Development In Nigeria

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Fidelity Bank Champions Gymnastics Development In Nigeria

Leading financial institution Fidelity Bank Plc has been unveiled as the headline sponsor of Gymfest Championship 2025, a premier gymnastics event dedicated to nurturing physical literacy, confidence and life skills in children and young people.

The event, organised by Tee Tumblers Gymnastics Club in partnership with the Society for the Performing Arts in Nigeria (SPAN), will take place on November 8, 2025, at The Podium in Lekki, Lagos.

Speaking on the sponsorship, Dr Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Fidelity Bank Plc, emphasised the bank’s commitment to youth development through sports.

“Our sponsorship of Gymfest is borne out of our devotion to developing sporting talents, especially in young children. Gymnastics builds discipline, resilience and confidence, and we believe that by supporting platforms like Gymfest, we are investing in the future of Nigeria’s youth,” she said.

Now in its second edition, Gymfest is expected to attract over 1,500 attendees, including 200 to 250 young gymnasts aged three and above, who will compete across levels from Pre-level to Level 7. The event will also feature the Gymfest Souk, a vibrant marketplace with approximately 50 vendors offering products and experiences for families and fitness enthusiasts.

“The Gymfest Championships aim to provide a dynamic platform for young and talented gymnasts to showcase their skills, creativity, and passion for the sport. Nigeria, and indeed Africa is rich with untapped gymnastics talent. This event serves as a celebration of that talent and a means to nurture it toward the global stage.

“Our ultimate goal is to establish a world-class gymnastics training centre in Nigeria, where athletes can train safely, effectively, and to international standards. Additionally, we seek to develop a coaching education centre to empower aspiring gymnastics coaches through professional training and continuous development,” said Yoyin Akpose, CEO of Teetumblers and Program Director of the event.

Gymnastics remains one of the most under-represented sports in Nigeria, yet it offers immense potential. According to the International Gymnastics Federation, over 30 countries have medalled in Olympic gymnastics events, with nations like the United States, China and Russia dominating the sport. Nigeria’s participation has been limited, but with structured grassroots programs and increased investment, the country can begin to compete on the global stage.

Fidelity Bank’s sponsorship of Gymfest aligns with its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) pillar of Youth Empowerment. Through this pillar, the bank has consistently supported initiatives that equip young people with skills, opportunities and platforms to thrive. This latest partnership also advances the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 4, which promotes inclusive and equitable quality education and lifelong learning opportunities for all.

As Gymfest 2.0 prepares to spotlight Nigeria’s next generation of gymnasts, Fidelity Bank’s involvement underscores the transformative power of corporate support in shaping a more dynamic and inclusive sporting future.

NDDC Empowers 100 Fashion Design Graduates

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NDDC Empowers 100 Fashion Design Graduates

The Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, has empowered 100 youths from across the Niger Delta region after a six-month intensive training in fashion and design.
Speaking during the graduation ceremony, the NDDC Managing Director, Dr Samuel Ogbuku, expressed joy at the milestone, stating that it would equip youths with creative skills and prepare them for a productive future.

He noted that the programme represented NDDC’s shift “from transaction to transformation”, focusing on sustainable empowerment rather than short-term interventions.

“We don’t believe in quantity; we believe in quality. In the past, we trained thousands for a few days and gave out starter packs. This time, we camped participants for six months to ensure real transformation,” Ogbuku said.

The NDDC Managing Director/CEO, Dr Samuel Ogbuku (3rd right), speaking during the handover of Starter packs to beneficiaries of the fashion and design training in Port Harcourt. With him are the NDDC Executive Director, Finance and Administration, Hon. Boma Iyaye (4th left); the NDDC Executive Director, Projects, Dr Victor Antai (2nd right) and the NDDC Executive Director, Corporate Services, Hon. Ifedayo Abegunde (1st right).

He urged the beneficiaries to remain innovative and confident and to serve as ambassadors of the NDDC by using their craft to promote growth and development within the Niger Delta and beyond.

The NDDC boss explained that the trainees were selected from the Commission’s digitised database based on competence and interest, adding that NDDC would continue to monitor their progress to assess the programme’s impact.

“With the skills you have acquired, you have been empowered. Go out there, make your families proud, make Nigeria proud, and make the Niger Delta proud,” he charged.

Ogbuku remarked that the next phase of the Commission’s youth empowerment initiative would focus on Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) to prepare youths for opportunities in Nigeria’s energy transition.

Also speaking, the NDDC Executive Director of Projects, Dr Victor Antai, said the programme aligns with the Commission’s commitment to human capital development, wealth creation, and reduction of social vices in the Niger Delta.

He highlighted other recent empowerment initiatives, including training in welding and fabrication, as well as industrial skills such as scaffolding and pipefitting.
“We are not only training youths for self-reliance, we are also equipping them with industrial sewing machines, generators, and logistics support to help them start their businesses,” Antai said.

Speaking in the same vein, the NDDC Executive Director of Finance and Administration, Alabo Boma Iyaye, described the fashion industry as a growing global market and urged the beneficiaries to remain innovative and committed to excellence.

In his remarks, the Executive Director, Corporate Services, Hon. Ifedayo Abegunde, encouraged the graduates to apply their skills productively, saying, “You have not been given fish to eat, but you have been taught how to fish.”

The training consultant, Mr. Greg Daniel, commended NDDC for the initiative, noting that most participants began the programme with no prior experience but now possess the skills to operate industrial machines and the knowledge to establish a thriving fashion business.

One of the beneficiaries, Miss Grace Nwaechefom, expressed appreciation to the NDDC and its partners for empowering them to become self-reliant, describing the initiative as a life-changing opportunity.

IGP Egbetokun Has Hit the Nail On The Head On Police Promotion Credibility

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IGP Egbetokun Has Hit the Nail On The Head On Police Promotion Credibility

By Adewole Kehinde,

“What you do has far greater impact than what you say” – Stephen Covey

It takes a leader of conviction, integrity, and courage to speak truth to mischief. This is precisely what the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, has done in addressing the unfounded insinuations and deliberate mischief peddled by those intent on casting a shadow over the credibility of the Nigeria Police promotion process, particularly the accelerated promotion exercise conducted a few months ago.

The IGP has hit the nail squarely on the head. His firm assertion that every promotion exercise conducted under his watch has followed due process, transparency, and merit-based standards is both timely and reassuring.

It reflects the renewed commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to fairness, accountability, and professionalism in managing the careers of its officers.

I completely align with the Inspector-General of Police’s declaration that there is no promotion scandal in the Nigeria Police Force. What exists is a clearly structured system that rewards diligence, professionalism, and proven capacity.

The attempt by a few detractors to misrepresent a transparent process as tainted is nothing more than a smear campaign against a leadership that is determined to rebuild public trust in policing institutions.

Under IGP Egbetokun, promotions within the Nigeria Police are no longer dictated by proximity to power or personal connections. As the IGP rightly emphasised, competence, performance, and discipline are now the sole determinants of elevation. There is no room for favouritism, nepotism, or tribal sentiment, vices that once undermined morale and distorted the Force’s career progression framework.

This merit-driven philosophy represents the cornerstone of the new Nigeria Police under Egbetokun’s leadership. It motivates excellence, boosts morale, and restores dignity to the uniform. Officers can now aspire to rise through the ranks confident that their hard work, sacrifice, and professionalism will not go unnoticed or unrewarded.

Equally commendable is the IGP’s charge to all recently elevated officers to fully embrace the philosophy of Community Policing and the practice of Intelligence-Led Policing. This call underscores his visionary approach to modern law enforcement, one that balances the power of technology, data-driven strategies, and citizen collaboration in tackling crime.

In today’s rapidly evolving security landscape, the need to harness technology, empower personnel, and drive innovation cannot be overstated. As the IGP rightly pointed out, these are the tools that will keep the police one step ahead of criminal enterprise.

The onus is now on the promoted officers to justify the trust reposed in them by translating their new ranks into tangible outcomes: safer communities, more responsive policing, and enhanced public confidence in the Force.

In conclusion, IGP Egbetokun deserves commendation not only for defending the integrity of the police promotion process but also for deepening a culture of merit, accountability, and excellence.

His leadership continues to redefine professionalism within the Nigeria Police, setting a new benchmark for future generations. Those attempting to taint this progress with falsehood will find that truth, as always, stands taller than mischief.

 

Adewole Kehinde is a public affairs analyst based in Abuja. 08166240846 @kennyadewole kennyadewole@gmail.com

NITDA DG Urges State Governors To Deepen Collaboration For Tech-Driven Inclusive Growth

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NITDA DG Urges State Governors To Deepen Collaboration For Tech-Driven Inclusive Growth

The Director General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Kashifu Inuwa, has called on state and local governments to strengthen collaboration with the Federal Government in accelerating Nigeria’s digital transformation and achieving inclusive national growth.

Inuwa made the call during a high-level visit to the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) Secretariat in Abuja, where he emphasised that digital transformation is a national vision that requires active participation from all levels of government.

“Our mandate isn’t just federal; it’s truly national, which means it must embrace state and local governments,” Inuwa said, urging governors to embed NITDA’s initiatives within state and local structures.

Highlighting Nigeria’s digital progress, the NITDA boss noted that when the agency began operations, fewer than 500,000 Nigerians used computers, and ICT contributed less than 0.5% to the GDP. Today, over 130 million Nigerians use the internet, and ICT contributes more than 17% to the GDP.

He attributed this transformation to strategic partnerships between government agencies, private organisations, and international development partners, stressing that “no one succeeds in isolation.”

Inuwa reiterated NITDA’s vision of building “a digitally empowered nation that uses technology to drive national prosperity”, guided by the agency’s Strategic Roadmap and Action Plan (SRAP), anchored on eight key pillars.

He said the first pillar—Fostering Digital Literacy and Cultivating Talent—remains central to the agency’s agenda. NITDA, he disclosed, aims to achieve 70% digital literacy by 2027 and 95% by 2030 through programmes such as the 3 Million Tech Talent (3MTT) initiative and the National Digital Literacy Framework (NDLF).

According to him, the agency is partnering with the Federal Ministry of Education, the National Universities Commission (NUC), and the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) to integrate digital skills training into primary, secondary, and tertiary curricula nationwide.

Inuwa also announced ongoing collaborations with the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation and the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) to train civil servants and corps members through the NYSC Digital Literacy Champions Initiative, expected to impact over 10 million Nigerians annually, especially in the informal sector.

He further invited state governments to participate actively in NITDA’s upcoming International Conference on Electronic Governance (ICEGOV) and Digital Nigeria Conference, designed to foster cross-state learning and collaboration in digital governance.

In his remarks, the Director General of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, Dr Abdulateef Shittu, commended NITDA’s efforts in advancing the country’s digital economy, describing the visit as a vital step toward deepening intergovernmental collaboration.

“We deeply appreciate your leadership and the critical role NITDA continues to play in advancing Nigeria’s digital economy. In an era where technology defines competitiveness and opportunity, your work stands at the heart of our nation’s transformation,” Shittu said.

He described digital transformation as a “national imperative” that can improve service delivery, expand economic opportunities, and uplift millions of Nigerians.

Dr. Shittu also highlighted the Forum’s initiatives, including the Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) Readiness Report and the Intelligent Revenue Authority Readiness Report, which guide subnational reforms in digital identity, data exchange, payments, and trust systems.

“These reports are already shaping conversations and actions at the subnational level,” he said, adding that collaboration on Technical Standards for DPI and the Nigeria Data Exchange Framework will strengthen interoperability and secure data sharing across government systems.

“With strong partnership and shared accountability, we will unlock a future where every Nigerian, urban or rural, has access to the tools and opportunities of the digital age,” Shittu added.

Aiyedatiwa’s Digital Vision, SITA’s Drive For Innovation, A Trailblazer – Lawson

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Aiyedatiwa’s Digital Vision, SITA’s Drive For Innovation, A Trailblazer – Lawson

The Senior Special Assistant to the Governor of Ondo State on Public Enlightenment, Comrade Olufemi Lawson, has lauded Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa for his visionary leadership and commitment to positioning Ondo State as a trailblazer in technological innovation through the adoption of Artificial Intelligence (AI).

In a statement issued on Tuesday, following the Ondo State Artificial Intelligence Adoption Summit held at the ODIRS Hall in Akure, Comrade Lawson described the Governor’s foresight in embracing AI as “a defining moment in the state’s march toward a smarter, more inclusive, and digitally driven governance model.”

The two-day summit, organized by the State Information Technology Agency (SITA), is being hosted under the theme of responsible and inclusive AI adoption, with participants drawn from government institutions, academia, private sector innovators, and youth-led tech initiatives.

Comrade Lawson particularly commended the Executive Chairman of SITA, Hon. Tomide Akinribido, for his “exceptional leadership, dedication, and vision,” noting that his stewardship is turning SITA into a hub of innovation and a key driver of Ondo State’s digital transformation agenda.

Quoting from Akinribido’s welcome address at the event, the SSA said:

“This summit is more than an event; it is a movement, a call to action for governments, industries, academia, and citizens to embrace artificial intelligence not as a threat, but as an enabler of progress, innovation, and inclusive growth.”

Lawson praised the emphasis on ethical, transparent, and inclusive AI deployment, stressing that the summit underscores the Governor’s broader commitment to using technology to enhance public service delivery, drive economic growth, and improve the quality of life of citizens.

He further noted that under Governor Aiyedatiwa’s administration, Ondo State has made remarkable strides in digital governance, automation of public services, and capacity building among civil servants and youths, which have collectively laid the groundwork for this new AI initiative.

“Governor Aiyedatiwa’s decision to champion AI adoption demonstrates courage and clarity of purpose. It reflects a leadership that is not afraid of the future but is determined to shape it responsibly,” Lawson said.

He added that the government’s partnership with innovators and technology stakeholders through SITA represents a sustainable model of public-private collaboration in advancing the state’s digital ecosystem.

As deliberations continue at the summit, the SSA expressed optimism that the outcome would define Ondo State’s strategic roadmap for AI integration in critical sectors such as education, healthcare, agriculture, security, and governance, making the Sunshine State a reference point in Nigeria and beyond.

“The Aiyedatiwa administration is not just building infrastructure; it is building intelligence, transforming governance through knowledge, data, and innovation,” Lawson concluded.

FCT Police Arrest Two “One Chance” Robbery Suspects Linked To Murder Of 23-Year-Old Lady

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FCT Police Arrest Two “One Chance” Robbery Suspects Linked To Murder Of 23-Year-Old Lady

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has arrested two notorious members of a “one chance” robbery syndicate responsible for the death of a 23-year-old lady, Miss Grace Godwin.

According to a statement issued by the Command’s spokesperson, SP Josephine Adeh, the tragic incident occurred on July 12, 2025, when police operatives received a distress call that the unconscious body of a young woman had been found along Iya Abubakar Street, Life Camp. Officers swiftly responded and evacuated the victim, later identified as Miss Godwin, to the hospital, where she was confirmed dead by a medical doctor.

Preliminary investigation revealed that Miss Godwin, a fuel-pump attendant, had closed from work the previous evening and unknowingly boarded a vehicle operated by a “one chance” gang. Acting on the directive of the Commissioner of Police, FCT Command, CP Miller G. Dantawaye, psc, operatives of the Command’s Scorpion Squad launched an intensive investigation into the case.

Through digital reconstructive intelligence, the team traced and arrested two suspects identified as Kabiru Abdullahi, 25, and Solomon Tanko, 35. Further findings showed that during the robbery, the victim recognised some of the assailants, who lived in the same Dape community as she did. In an ensuing struggle, Abdullahi reportedly strangled her with a plastic nylon bag after she bit his finger in self-defence.

Items recovered from the suspects include a golden-colored Toyota Camry, popularly known as “Pencil Light,” and plastic nylon bags used in the crime.

The police said efforts are ongoing to apprehend other fleeing members of the gang.

CP Dantawaye commended the Scorpion Squad for their swift and professional action, while expressing his condolences to the family of the late Miss Godwin. He reaffirmed the Command’s unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety and security of all residents of the Federal Capital Territory.

INEC Chairman Assures Of Full Readiness For Anambra Governorship Election

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INEC Chairman Assures Of Full Readiness For Anambra Governorship Election

The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Joash Ojo Amupitan, SAN, has assured Nigerians that the Commission is fully prepared for the November 8, 2025, Anambra State Governorship Election.

Speaking at the meeting of the Inter-Agency Consultative Committee on Election Security (ICCES) held at INEC Headquarters, Abuja, Prof. Amupitan said the Commission had concluded a comprehensive readiness assessment across the state and was confident of a smooth conduct of the election.

He revealed that 24,000 personnel would be deployed across 5,718 polling units, with results collated at 326 wards, 21 local government areas, and the State Collation Centre in Awka. He also noted that voting would not take place in two polling units due to the absence of registered voters.

The INEC Chairman announced the extension of the Permanent Voter Card (PVC) collection exercise in Anambra State from Wednesday, October 29, to Sunday, November 2, 2025, following reports that only 63.9% of registered voters had collected their PVCs.

Prof. Amupitan reiterated INEC’s commitment to free, fair, and credible elections, stressing that logistics and security arrangements were already in place. “We have hired 200 buses and 83 boats to ensure seamless transportation of election officials and materials,” he said.

He also warned against vote buying, describing it as a menace that threatens the integrity of elections. “Security agents must not allow vote buyers to contaminate our electoral process,” he cautioned.

The National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, represented by the Director of Internal Security, Mr Hassan Y. Abdullahi, has reaffirmed the federal government’s commitment to ensuring a peaceful and secure environment for the November 8, 2025, Anambra State Governorship Election.

Speaking at the ICCES meeting in Abuja, Abdullahi said the Office of the NSA remains fully committed to implementing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s directive on the strategic mobilisation of security forces during the electoral period.

According to him, enhanced surveillance, deployment of adequate security personnel, and improved intelligence gathering have been put in place to prevent any attempt by “destructive elements or desperate politicians” to undermine the electoral process.

He emphasised that political parties and candidates must promote peace and discourage violence. “We are engaging with political leaders and local stakeholders to send a clear message that violence will not be tolerated,” he said.

He added that the Nigerian Police Force, as the lead agency for election security, alongside other security services, is prepared to maintain order before, during, and after the polls. Abdullahi called on citizens to support a peaceful process “that reflects our shared values and aspirations.”

The Director-General of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Brigadier General Olakunle Nafiu, in his remarks, assured that corps members participating in the Anambra State Governorship Election will be fully protected.

Speaking at the ICCES meeting, Brig. Gen. Nafiu said the NYSC was working closely with INEC and security agencies to guarantee the safety and welfare of corps members, who play a vital role in election administration.

He described corps members as “vibrant, patriotic, and non-partisan Nigerians” whose participation enhances the credibility of the electoral process. He added that adequate arrangements had been made for their allowances, insurance, and security coverage.

“I will personally be on the ground in Anambra before, during, and after the election to support our corps members,” Nafiu assured. He appealed to the government and people of Anambra State to regard corps members as their children and provide them with all necessary support.

The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has approved the deployment of 45,000 police officers across Anambra State ahead of the November 8 governorship election.

Represented by Commissioner of Police Abayomi Sogunle at the ICCES meeting in Abuja, the IGP said the deployment would ensure adequate security before, during, and after the polls.

He announced that pre-election deployments would begin on November 1, with tactical units conducting clearance operations to neutralise threats and arrest potential troublemakers.

Egbetokun also disclosed that only security agencies officially represented in the ICCES, such as the Police, DSS, NSCDC, and the military, would be involved in the election. “No vigilante group will be allowed to play any role in the electoral process,” he stressed.

He further stated that the police would impose movement restrictions on Election Day and ensure all entry and exit points in Anambra are adequately manned. “We are determined to deliver a peaceful and credible election,” he said.

Egbetokun Reaffirms Merit-based Promotion In Police As New Senior Officers Are Decorated In Abuja

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Egbetokun Reaffirms Merit-based Promotion In Police As New Senior Officers Are Decorated In Abuja

The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, PhD, NPM, has reaffirmed that all promotions within the Nigeria Police Force under his administration remain strictly merit-driven, transparent, and in line with established procedures.

He asserted on Tuesday during the decoration ceremony of newly promoted senior police officers, including Deputy Inspectors-General of Police, Assistant Inspectors-General of Police, and Commissioners of Police, held at the Goodluck Ebele Jonathan Peacekeeping Hall, Force Headquarters, Abuja.

In his address, the IGP congratulated the newly promoted officers, describing their elevation as a reward for hard work, discipline, and dedication to service. “Today, we celebrate not just advancement in rank, but the affirmation of excellence, character, and distinguished service within the Nigeria Police Force,” he said.

Egbetokun emphasised that leadership at senior levels of the Force comes with higher responsibilities and expectations. “Every insignia worn at this level must represent not privilege, but purpose — a reminder that authority is meaningful only when it uplifts the institution and strengthens public trust,” he stated.

Responding to recent allegations questioning the integrity of the Police promotion process, the IGP dismissed such claims as unfounded. “The Nigeria Police Force has nothing to hide and nothing to defend. Every promotion exercise conducted under this administration has followed due process, transparent, merit-based, and in strict conformity with established standards. There is no promotion scandal in the Nigeria Police Force,” he declared.

He further stressed that promotions are guided solely by competence, performance, and discipline, with no room for favouritism, nepotism, or tribal bias. “Our commitment to fairness and merit remains unwavering. This remains the cornerstone of our career management philosophy,” he added.

The Police Chief also charged the newly promoted officers to embrace modern policing approaches through community engagement and intelligence-led operations.

“The Nigerian people expect a Force that is smarter, more responsive, and deeply connected to the communities it serves,” he said, urging commanders to harness technology and innovation to stay ahead of evolving criminal trends.

IGP Egbetokun expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his continued support towards enhancing police welfare and operational capacity. He also commended the Police Service Commission (PSC), led by its Chairman, DIG Hashimu Argungu (Rtd), for maintaining a transparent and collaborative promotion process.

Addressing the families of the newly promoted officers, the IGP lauded their sacrifices and support, describing them as “the silent strength behind every triumph.”

“Together, we are building a modern, accountable, and people-focused Police Force, one that earns trust at home and respect abroad,” Egbetokun concluded, congratulating the decorated officers and charging them to lead with fairness, integrity, and vision.

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