In an unprecedented move, a Nigerian police officer who was recently demoted following an investigation into an alleged job extortion racket has been reinstated after intervention by influential figures in the Nigerian government, sources confirm.
The officer, whose identity is currently withheld, was reportedly involved in a widespread scheme that exploited job seekers by demanding payments in exchange for employment opportunities within the Nigerian Police Force. The controversial demotion, which followed an internal probe by the police, raised concerns about systemic corruption within the force and drew significant public attention.
However, recent developments have taken an unexpected turn, as sources reveal that the officer has been reinstated after the intervention of the Chief of Staff to the President, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, and the newly appointed Inspector General of Police (IG), Kayode Egbetokun. The intervention came as a result of discussions surrounding the officer’s past record and the ongoing pressure from powerful stakeholders in the political and security sectors.
According to sources close to the matter, both Gbajabiamila and Egbetokun engaged in private discussions, which ultimately led to a decision to reinstate the officer. This move has raised eyebrows, with critics arguing that it undermines the efforts to combat corruption within the police force. However, some proponents argue that the officer's reinstatement is part of a broader strategy to address internal challenges within the Nigerian Police Force.
An anonymous source within the police force stated, “The intervention of Gbajabiamila and IG Egbetokun has brought about a swift resolution to the situation. However, the decision has sparked mixed reactions among officers, especially those who feel that justice for extortion victims has not been fully served.”