Former Inspector-General of Police, Mike Okiro, has firmly denied allegations suggesting he is attempting to take over the duties of the current IGP, Kayode Egbetokun.
In a statement issued on Saturday in Abuja through his Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Supreme Ibitomi, Okiro addressed what he called baseless accusations.
“Our attention has been drawn to publications in some quarters claiming that Okiro is usurping the powers of the current Inspector-General of Police (I-G), Kayode Egbetokun,” the statement began.
“We categorically state that these claims are entirely false. It is unfortunate that some individuals will resort to spreading falsehoods to tarnish the reputation of a respected figure like Okiro,” it added.
Okiro clarified that a recent meeting of retired Inspectors General of Police had sparked the speculation. He explained that the gathering was convened to deliberate on the compulsory retirement of some senior officers.
“Egbetokun is an intelligent, well-educated and experienced police officer who does not require external influence to carry out his constitutional duty as the head of the country’s police force,” Okiro stated.
He emphasized that he only served as the appointed head of the forum and not in any personal capacity trying to interfere with police leadership.
“We are convinced that this publication emanates from a group of people who are not concerned about the plight of these retired police officers,” he noted.
According to Okiro, the forum’s goal remains the welfare of police officers and ensuring the institution’s integrity.
“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.”
“The publication will not intimidate or stampede the forum into abandoning its commitment to the welfare of these officers; rather, it will galvanise our resolve to pursue justice and fairness for all,” he declared.
He also called on the general public to ignore what he described as misleading reports and instead shift attention to the real challenges facing the force.
“The forum 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,” Okiro concluded.
