Police Integrity Movement Slams Sowore Over Attacks on IGP, Demands Probe of Ex-IGP Alkali

The Police Integrity Movement has openly criticized civil rights activist Omoyele Sowore for what it described as relentless and unjustified attacks on the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun.

The group questioned Sowore’s intentions, expressing concern over his constant criticism of the police leadership at a time when Nigeria is grappling with mounting security challenges.

According to the group’s spokesperson, Isaiah Ijele, “At a time of immense security concerns facing our country, the reasonable thing one expects from well-meaning Nigerians is to join hands with the Police authorities on the way out of the woods. On the contrary, Sowore has become a tool of destruction and ridicule against the Nigerian Police.”

In addition to condemning Sowore, the Police Integrity Movement has called on anti-corruption agencies to launch an investigation into former Inspector General of Police, Usman Baba Alkali, over alleged corruption and money laundering.

The group stressed the importance of acknowledging the sacrifices and contributions of dedicated police officers, warning that constant negative focus on the institution only undermines their work and could embolden crime and corruption. Highlighting the good efforts of officers, they argued, would encourage professionalism and restore public trust in law enforcement.

Ijele further noted that while some corrupt individuals have tarnished the image of the force, thousands of honest officers continue to serve with dedication. A balanced narrative, he said, is essential for rebuilding confidence in the police.

The group also pointed out reforms under the current Inspector General of Police, including the promotion of over 150,000 officers, the digitalization of the police pension scheme, provision of insurance for fallen officers, and the institution of awards to motivate outstanding personnel.

Urging activists like Sowore to refrain from targeting the IGP, the Police Integrity Movement maintained that a more constructive approach would help create a supportive environment for the police to thrive.

The group emphasized its mission of promoting accountability, equity, and justice within law enforcement, noting that negative perceptions fueled by the actions of a few bad officers unfairly stigmatize the majority of hardworking personnel.

They warned that focusing only on corruption within the force could demoralize officers and hinder efforts to fight crime. Instead, they called for recognition of officers who have paid the ultimate price in the line of duty while encouraging activists to adopt a more balanced stance toward the police institution.