The Integrity Youth Alliance has criticised the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) over its recent call for the removal of the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, describing the demand as mischievous, unfounded, and driven by ulterior motives.
In a statement signed by its National Coordinator, Kelvin Adegbenga, the group said NANS’ position lacked depth and failed to appreciate the complexities of Nigeria’s security landscape.
It added that the call did not reflect any genuine patriotic concern but instead appeared to be motivated by interests “best known to its promoters”.
The group declared its full support for the leadership and performance of the IGP, noting that Egbetokun has been instrumental in strengthening the country’s security architecture through reforms and strategic initiatives.
According to the statement, Nigeria’s security challenges predate the current administration and require coordinated efforts from the military, intelligence services, and the police.
The group described as “grossly irresponsible” any attempt to single out the IGP as a scapegoat for issues that demand collective responsibility.
The Alliance also questioned what it termed NANS’ “selective outrage”, noting that despite concerns raised by the students’ body over a recent attack in Kebbi State, allegedly occurring shortly after the military withdrew troops from the area, NANS did not call for the resignation of the Chief of Army Staff. This, it said, exposed inconsistencies in the association’s stance.
The group urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to disregard the call for Egbetokun’s removal, describing it as unwarranted and unpatriotic.
Highlighting some of the IGP’s achievements, the Alliance recalled the establishment of the Special Intervention Squad (SIS) in 2024, coordinated by CP Ogunlowo, to bolster security nationwide, particularly around schools. It challenged NANS to provide evidence for its claims concerning the squad’s operations and funding.
The statement further noted that under Egbetokun’s leadership, crime rates have reduced, and the police have responded swiftly to emerging threats, contributing to safer communities and campuses across the country.
The Alliance maintained that the IGP’s reforms and commitment to public safety have delivered tangible improvements and should be commended rather than criticised.
It urged President Tinubu to continue supporting the police chief, stressing that his ongoing efforts are vital to building a more secure Nigeria.
Adegbenga concluded by alleging that such public outbursts from NANS are often attempts to attract the IGP’s attention for meetings, urging Nigerians not to be misled by the association’s claims.
