The Integrity Youth Alliance (IYA) has dismissed as false and mischievous a report alleging that there is anger within the Nigeria Police Force over plans to organise a low-key pulling-out parade for former Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun.
In a statement issued in Abuja, the group’s National Coordinator, Kelvin Adegbenga, described the report published by Sahara Reporters and titled “EXCLUSIVE: Anger In Nigeria Police Force As IGP Disu Plans Low-Key Send-Off Parade For Embattled Predecessor, Egbetokun” as misleading and deliberately fabricated.
According to the Alliance, there is no discontent within the hierarchy of the Nigeria Police Force regarding the planned ceremonial send-off, stressing that the claim of anger among officers is entirely baseless.
The group also rejected the suggestion that Egbetokun left office under a cloud of scandal, insisting that the former police chief exited honourably after serving the country with dedication and distinction.
Adegbenga explained that a pulling-out parade is a long-standing tradition within the police institution, organised to honour retiring Inspectors-General in recognition of their years of service and leadership.
“It is therefore proper and well within institutional tradition for the former IGP to be accorded the ceremonial pulling-out parade,” the statement said.
The Alliance further dismissed allegations that Egbetokun was forced out of office amid claims of financial mismanagement, describing the accusations as reckless and unsupported by any evidence.
It challenged the unnamed sources cited in the publication to publicly provide proof of the alleged misappropriation of police funds rather than relying on anonymous claims.
The group also rejected insinuations that the ceremony was part of a “soft landing” arrangement, noting that Egbetokun’s record in office speaks for itself and does not require such characterisation.
The statement also refuted suggestions of a strained relationship between the incumbent Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, and his predecessor, maintaining that both leaders maintain a cordial and professional relationship.
According to the Alliance, claims that the ceremony would be conducted secretly without the usual protocol are unfounded, as relevant authorities are aware of the arrangements.
The group suggested that the narrative being circulated may have originated from disgruntled elements seeking to create disaffection within the police leadership.
It therefore urged the public to disregard what it described as sensational and inaccurate claims published by Sahara Reporters, stressing that the Nigeria Police Force remains a disciplined institution guided by tradition, honour and professionalism.
The Integrity Youth Alliance also warned that attempts by individuals or media platforms to sow discord within the police institution would ultimately fail.
