The Police Integrity Movement has strongly condemned Omoyele Sowore, a civil rights activist, for his relentless attacks on the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun.
The group, which questions Sowore’s motives, over the consistent criticism of the police leadership at a time when the country is grappling with significant security concerns, said instead of attacking the police, Nigerians should be rallying behind the authorities to find solutions to the nation’s security challenges.
In a statement by its spokesperson, Isaiah Ijele, the group said, “At a time of immense security concerns facing our country, the reasonable thing one expects from well-meaning Nigerians is to join hands with the Police authorities on the way out of the woods. On the contrary, Sowore has become a tool of destruction and to ridicule the Nigerian Police.”
The Police Integrity Movement emphasises the importance of recognising the sacrifices and good work of dedicated police officers. They argue that constant negative focus on the police can undermine their vital work and inadvertently promote crime and corruption. By highlighting the good work of many officers, the group aims to foster a more positive and supportive environment for law enforcement.
The group’s spokesperson, Isaiah Ijeje, noted that while dedicated and honest officers serve the police force, a few corrupt individuals’ actions have unfortunately tarnished the entire organisation’s reputation.
They believe that a more balanced perspective is essential to rebuild trust and support the work of law enforcement agencies.
Meanwhile, the group has called on anti-corruption agencies to investigate former Inspector General of police Usman Baba Alkali on corruption and money laundering allegations.
The group said the outcome of the investigation into the former IGP’s activities could have implications for broader efforts to reform and improve the integrity of Nigeria’s law enforcement institutions.