From Haruna Tula – Abuja
Controversial Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun and former IGP, Sir Mike Okiro are at daggers drawn.
The SUPREME learnt that, Egbetokun is ill advised that, Okiro is usurping his functions, in respect of compulsory retirement of some senior Police Officers.
The officers feel injurious and dragged the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), PSC and IGP Egbetokun to court, claiming that, their compulsory retirement is illegal.
The aggrieved officers were compulsorily retired late January 2025 by the Police Service Commission (PSC)
The SUPREME learnt that, Okiro and some other past IGPs held a meeting in respect of the legal imbroglio, with a view to resolving the matter out of court.
However, Okiro said he later learnt that, he is being accused by Egbetokun and his cohorts that, he is usurping Egbetokun’s functions.
Interestingly, Okiro was an IGP, and the first IGP to head the Police Service Commission. It is believed that, he has a sound knowledge on how to resolve the controversial retirement that has become a judicial matter
Responding to some “spurious” publications, Okiro in a statement said, ” my attention has been drawn to some spurious and malicious publications in some quarters claiming that Sir Mike Okiro is usurping the powers of the current Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun.”
The statement said: “We categorically state that these claims are baseless, unfounded, and entirely false. It is unfortunate that some individuals would resort to spreading falsehoods to tarnish the reputation of a respected figure like Sir Mike Okiro.”
He clarified that, a recent convergence of retired IGPs “was solely to discuss the compulsory retirement of some senior police officers. The forum, comprising former IGPs, met to examine the justification behind these retirements.”
Okiro’s role “was merely as the chosen leader of this team, and not as an individual attempting to exert influence over the current IGP. This initiative is a testament to the forum’s commitment to the welfare of police officers and the integrity of the force.”
He highlighted some major points, that, IGP, Kayode Egbetokun, is an intelligent, well-educated, and experienced police officer who doesn’t require external influence.
“,We are convinced that the publication emanated from a group of people who are happy with the suffering of these retired police officers. Despite this, the forum of retired IGPs will continue to foster harmony and advocate for the welfare of our colleagues. We will not be swayed by malicious propaganda. Our focus remains on ensuring that the rights and dignity of both serving and retired police officers are protected and respected.”
He cautioned that, the “spurious” publication “will not intimidate or stampede the forum into abandoning its commitment to the welfare of these officers; rather, it will galvanize our resolve to pursue justice and fairness for all.”
The statement urged the public to disregard these malicious claims and focus on the real issues affecting our nation. Sir Mike Okiro and the forum of retired IGPs will continue to contribute to the growth and development of the Nigeria Police Force.
“We call on well-meaning Nigerians to support our efforts in promoting the welfare of police officers and advancing the cause of justice and security in our country.’
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