The Media Rights Advocacy Centre (MRAC) has refuted a recent publication by online blog Sahara Reporters, describing it as “false, misleading, and a calculated attempt to malign the leadership of the Nigeria Police Force.”
In a press release signed by its Spokesman, Dr. Yomi Ajilore, MRAC took strong exception to Sahara Reporters’ allegations that Nigerian police commands are now forced to “beg governors” and engage in corrupt practices to fund their operations due to the failure of the federal government to release quarterly allocations.
Dr. Ajilore stated unequivocally that “unlike in the past, the Police today is not underfunded, contrary to the misleading narrative peddled by Sahara Reporters.” He described the publication as “yet another in the series of desperate efforts by Sahara Reporters to incite disaffection within the Force and discredit the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun.”
According to MRAC, the report is part of “a well-funded campaign of calumny” targeting the IGP’s leadership. “It is common knowledge that the Inspector-General of Police has made significant strides in repositioning the Force for optimal performance,” the statement read.
Dr. Ajilore also clarified that it is a long-standing tradition for state governments and the private sector to support police operations with logistics and other relevant forms of assistance. “Such collaboration does not amount to institutional failure but reflects a healthy synergy between the police and stakeholders in the security ecosystem,” he said.
The organization called on Nigerians to disregard the Sahara Reporters’ publication, asserting that “such claims only exist in the figment of their imagination and serve no purpose other than to create discord within the police hierarchy.”
MRAC further reaffirmed its confidence in the leadership of IGP Kayode Egbetokun, noting that under his stewardship, the welfare and operational efficiency of the Force remain top priorities. The Centre also acknowledged the “massive support and commitment” of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration in strengthening the Nigeria Police to fulfill its constitutional mandate of maintaining internal security.
“The Nigeria Police Force under IGP Egbetokun is focused, professional, and committed to securing the nation,” the statement concluded.
