The Integrity Youth Alliance, an organisation that has been monitoring the developmental trends in the Nigerian Police Force for over 15 years, has slammed self-acclaimed activist Omoyele Sowore for his malicious and false publication against the Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun.
Reacting to a publication on Sahara Reporters titled “Sowore Slams IGP Egbetokun for Claiming Ignorance in Police Funds Misappropriation, Asks Officers to Brace Up for July 21 Nationwide Strike”, Publicity Director of the Alliance, Adenike Ajanlekoko, stated that IGP Egbetokun has at no time mismanaged welfare funds meant for police officers nor ignored the growing challenges facing police pensioners.
“We wish to categorically state that IGP Egbetokun is aware of the difficulties encountered by police pensioners. He has made it a priority to ensure the well-being of both active and retired officers, recognising that efficient and timely pension management is vital for sustaining morale and upholding the integrity of the institution.
“How can an IGP who convened a meeting with retired police officers to address concerns surrounding the Contributory Pension Scheme in February 2025 be ’employing tactics of mental deception’, claiming ignorance about the challenges confronting police pensioners following retirement?”
“We wish to remind Sowore of his ignorance: on several occasions, the IGP has acknowledged that the current pension scheme does not guarantee a dignified and financially secure life for retired police personnel.
“He has always emphasised that police officers work under challenging conditions, facing risks and making sacrifices that cannot be ignored. It is only just and rewarding that, in retirement, they enjoy a financially secure life.
“We have now agreed that Sowore is suffering from a psychological disorder because this is the same person who published that the Nigeria Police has not received funds for 2025 from the Federal Government, and he is now saying that the IGP misappropriated the N4 million quarterly funds earmarked for state commands.
This IGP is committed to the Nigeria Police Force’s focus on accountability and transparency, viewing them as essential components of effective policing.
“He has consistently emphasised that police accountability is a fundamental aspect of democratic policing and has urged stakeholders to collaborate in building a more efficient and trustworthy law enforcement system.
“Since assuming office, the IGP has implemented significant measures to enhance internal oversight and promote accountability.
Ajanlekoko further stated that the IGP is not responsible for the delayed payments of salaries, allowances, and emoluments to policemen and women; therefore, this is another piece of evidence that Sowore’s psychiatric disorder is worsening daily.
“The IGP has not relented in assuring all officers—both active and retired—along with their families, of the Force’s steadfast dedication to improving their welfare and establishing a system that honours their sacrifices,” the statement concluded.
