The Nigeria Police Force has denounced allegations made against Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, regarding a land dispute between Ms Bilikisu Ishaqu Aliyu and the Yesufu family.
The police described the claims as unfounded and misleading.
In a statement, the Force Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi emphasized that the IGP should not be involved in civil matters like land disputes.
The statement added that the AIT in their publication of 10th July, 2024, titled ‘Yesufu Family Seeks Justice As Police Authorities Fail to Investigate Bilikisu Ishaqu’, distorted the facts in the case in question and thus misled the public.
The statement reads in part, “The Nigeria Police Force has noted with amusement the recent allegations made against the Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, in connection with a land dispute involving one Ms Bilikisu Ishaqu Aliyu and the Yesufu family.
“We find it necessary to address these unfounded claims and provide clarity on the matter, more so that the claims painted the police as an irresponsible, meddlesome, and lawless agency.
“First and foremost, it is important to emphasize that the IGP shouldn’t be dragged into civil matters such as this land dispute. The NPF’s role is primarily to maintain law and order and ensure public safety. The police only intervene in disputes when there are clear criminal elements involved.”
The statement also dismissed claims of a conflict between the police and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) as “laughable” and “without merit.” The police maintained that they have a cooperative and professional relationship with the EFCC.
“Similarly, the assertion that the police are at odds with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is unfounded, laughable, and without merit.
“The NPF maintains a cooperative and professional relationship with the EFCC, and there are no conflicts between the two agencies on this extant case or any other matter whatsoever. Any suggestion to the contrary is a blatant attempt to mislead the public and create unnecessary tension between both agencies.
“It is also vital to make it clear that if the parties involved in the dispute in question feel aggrieved and require the intervention of the IGP, there are proper channels to follow. Instead of resorting to media blackmail and attempting to malign the IGP’s reputation or ridiculing the Police institution, the concerned parties should make an official contact through the appropriate channels.
“The NPF is always open to addressing legitimate concerns and providing assistance where necessary, provided the correct procedures are followed.”
The police urged parties involved in the dispute to follow proper channels for intervention, rather than resorting to media blackmail. The Force reiterated its commitment to promoting peace, unity, and progress in the country.
