The Democracy Coalition, a prominent advocacy group dedicated to upholding democratic principles and integrity in Nigeria's governance, has issued a strong condemnation of Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Olukayode Egbetokun, in response to alarming reports of alleged extortion within the Police Officers' Wives' Association (POWA).
The Coalition calls for an immediate and thorough investigation into the claims that police officers' wives have been subjected to coercive and exploitative financial demands under the guise of membership and support for the association. The allegations, which have emerged from multiple sources within POWA, suggest that some members have been forced to make substantial, unsolicited payments as a condition for participation in association activities and access to supposed benefits.
"We are deeply disturbed by the revelations of alleged extortion targeting women who should be receiving support and advocacy, not subjected to abuse of power by those entrusted with safeguarding the public," said a spokesperson for the Democracy Coalition. "It is even more concerning that the Inspector-General of Police, as the head of the institution responsible for enforcing the law, is implicated in this disgraceful situation. This behavior runs counter to the very principles of justice, integrity, and respect for human dignity that the police force is meant to uphold."
The Democracy Coalition is calling for Inspector-General Egbetokun to take immediate action to address the matter. They demand the establishment of an independent inquiry to investigate the allegations of abuse and extortion, ensure accountability for anyone involved, and provide justice to those affected, particularly the wives of police officers who may be vulnerable to these exploitative practices.
Furthermore, the Coalition urges the IGP to restore public confidence in the police force by taking swift action to demonstrate a commitment to transparency, justice, and the ethical treatment of all individuals within the police force’s sphere of influence.
"The Nigerian people deserve a police force that operates with integrity and holds its leaders and officers accountable," the Coalition added. "This scandal not only tarnishes the reputation of the Nigerian police but undermines the very fabric of trust between law enforcement and the public."