By Danjuma Lamido
In recent days, the presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC), Omoyele Sowore, has once again made an unfounded allegation, this time claiming that the hierarchy of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) is “in the pocket” of Senator Ned Nwoko.
Such a sweeping assertion is not only baseless but also irresponsible, especially coming from a person who seeks to occupy the highest office in the land.
Sowore’s remark follows a long pattern of sensational statements designed to attract attention rather than promote constructive engagement. While criticism of public institutions is a democratic right, it must be grounded in fact, not speculation or personal grievance.
Let it be stated clearly: the Nigeria Police Force under the leadership of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, is not in the pocket of any individual, politician, or organisation, irrespective of wealth, social standing, or political influence.
Institutional Independence Is Not Up for Sale
Since assuming office, IGP Egbetokun has consistently emphasised professionalism, constitutional policing, and independence from vested interests. His administration has introduced reforms to strengthen accountability, improve operational capacity, and restore public confidence. These are not the actions of a police chief beholden to anyone.
To suggest that a single senator controls the entire hierarchy of the Force is to insult the integrity of thousands of officers who risk their lives daily to protect Nigerians. It also trivialises the complex internal and external oversight mechanisms that govern the modern police institution.
Sensational Claims Do Not Build a Nation
Nigeria is going through a critical period where institutions need strengthening, not reckless attacks. When political actors make claims without evidence, they contribute to public cynicism and weaken trust in the very bodies essential to national stability.
Criticism is welcome, but it must be constructive, factual, and responsible.
Egbetokun’s Leadership Speaks for Itself
Under IGP Egbetokun, the Force has taken major steps to distance policing from political manipulation. Officers are being trained, discipline is being enforced, and operations are increasingly guided by due process. These reforms contradict any narrative suggesting that the NPF is a puppet of a single individual.
If Sowore or anyone else has evidence of wrongdoing, the proper path is to present such evidence to the appropriate authorities — not to make generalised, inflammatory statements.
Conclusion
Nigeria demands maturity from those who aspire to lead it. Slinging accusations without proof may score cheap political points, but it does nothing to advance democracy or strengthen our institutions.
The Nigeria Police Force, under IGP Egbetokun, remains committed to serving the nation with independence, integrity, and professionalism. It is not, and will never be, in the pocket of any individual, regardless of their status.
As citizens, we must be careful not to allow baseless rhetoric to undermine the credibility of institutions that hold the fabric of our society together.
Danjuma Lamido writes from Yola, Adamawa State. E-mail: danjumalamido2011@gmail.com
