The South West Youth Alliance (SWYA) has condemned in strong terms the recent statement by Barrister Marshal Abubakar, legal counsel to activist and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore, describing it as “misleading” and “politically motivated”.
In a press statement signed by its National Publicity Director, Ajanlekoko Olanike, SWYA refuted Abubakar’s claims that the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, was acting illegally and abusing his office in connection with Sowore’s recent arrest and detention.
“We consider these allegations not only baseless and inflammatory but also a deliberate attempt to undermine the credibility of the Nigeria Police Force under the transformational leadership of IGP Egbetokun,” the statement read.
SWYA noted that the appointment of IGP Egbetokun was constitutionally made and duly ratified by the Police Council, warning that any reference to him as an “illegal IGP” is a “reckless falsehood, devoid of merit, and unbefitting of the legal profession.”
The youth group also defended the police action concerning Sowore’s arrest, stating that it followed due legal process.
“No citizen, no matter how popular or controversial, is above the law. The right to social media and online publication must not be used as a shield for impunity, incitement, or conduct that breaches public order or national security,” the group asserted.
The SWYA further criticised Barrister Abubakar for accusing the IGP of abuse of office “without a shred of evidence,” while praising the police leadership for its ongoing reforms, transparency in promotion, and focus on professionalism.
The group cautioned the public and media against being swayed by “politically charged narratives” aimed at dragging the police into controversy, emphasising that “legal disputes should be settled in court, not in the court of public opinion.”
Reaffirming its support for IGP Egbetokun, the statement concluded: “The South West Youth Alliance stands solidly behind IGP Kayode Egbetokun and his reform agenda for a more professional, responsive, and people-oriented police force.”
