Civil society organisation, Advocates for Good Governance, has lauded the Police for ‘notable achievements’ in 2025, while condemning sustained smear campaigns and alleged attempts to force Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, out of office.
The group said the police, under Egbetokun’s leadership, recorded progress in professionalism, discipline, and internal reforms, despite persistent attacks at discrediting it and its leadership.
In a statement yesterday by Abe Kolawole, Publicity secretary and Ibrahim Ahmed, president general, the organisation warned that media attacks and online campaigns against the Police chief were part of efforts by disgruntled elements to derail reforms in the Police.
“These smear campaigns and attempts to get the IG out of office are dangerous to national security,” it said. “They are driven by individuals who lost out under the reform-oriented leadership and are bent on destabilising the Police.”
The group noted that Egbetokun’s enforcement of rules on retirement age, years of service, promotions, and postings has blocked entrenched interests that previously thrived on impunity, triggering backlash against his leadership.
It quoted Danjuma Lamido as saying the activities appeared to be sponsored efforts to blackmail the IG rather than strengthen press freedom through constructive engagement.
“It is difficult to ignore the pattern. Despite dialogue, reforms, and open-door policies, the posture of some groups mirrors that of misguided elements intent on forcing the IG out of office. If that is the agenda, it should be stated openly, not cloaked in sanctimonious statements,” Lamido said.
Lauding the police performance, the group cited improved accountability, firmer discipline among officers, and a renewed focus on professionalism under the IG.
It called on Nigerians to rally behind the Police and support reforms, stressing that weakening the leadership through smear campaigns would only embolden criminal elements.
“We urge the public to support the police and reject attempts to undermine the IG. The focus should be on strengthening the Police, not tearing it down for selfish reasons,” the group added.
The organisation appealed to the media to uphold ethical standards and avoid being used as platforms for unverified allegations, noting attacks on the police could erode public trust in security institutions.
It reaffirmed its commitment to supporting reforms and urged stakeholders to prioritise national interest over personal or political agenda.
The Nation News
