Group calls for IGP dismissal over alleged police brutality

A coalition of Nigerian youth, student and civil society organizations has called for the immediate removal of Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun, citing recent incidents of alleged police brutality under his leadership.

The group’s demands follow the arrest and reported mistreatment of Peace Corps of Nigeria (PCN) Commandant Dickson Akoh, along with other officers, which they claim exemplifies an escalation of abusive practices within the police force.

During an emergency press conference in Abuja, coalition leaders condemned the IGP for allegedly ordering the arrest of Akoh over a tenancy dispute. Armed officers reportedly stormed the Peace Corps headquarters in Jabi, Abuja, breaking into Akoh’s office and arresting him and 16 personnel. Witnesses claimed the officers, reportedly accompanied by thugs, forced entry, vandalized property, and ransacked offices before detaining Akoh.

The coalition, represented by figures such as Blessing Akinlosotu, former National Youth Council President Murtala Mohammed, and Ademario Emmanuel of the Coalition of Nigeria Youth on Security and Safety Affairs, issued an ultimatum for the IGP to release Akoh and other detained personnel by October 28, 2024, and issue an apology to the Peace Corps and NSCDC.

In a strongly worded statement, they said, “The Nigeria Police Force, under IGP Egbetokun, is turning into an instrument of terror against Nigerians.” They demanded immediate corrective action to avoid a large-scale peaceful protest by youth, student, and civil society stakeholders at the National Assembly and police headquarters if their demands are unmet.

The coalition also called for the unsealing of the Peace Corps headquarters, which was reportedly shuttered following the arrests, to allow for the restoration of activities at the organization’s offices.