Group faults Sahara Reporters, describes claims about ex-IGP Egbetokun and PRO Hundeyi as unfounded

A civil society organisation, the Police Integrity Movement under the umbrella of the Concerned Citizens Leadership Integrity and Transparency Advocacy Initiative (CLITA), has dismissed a report by Sahara Reporters alleging that the immediate past Inspector-General of Police (IGP) is nursing a senatorial ambition.

In a statement issued in Abuja on Friday, CLITA’s Executive Director, Isaiah Davies Ijele, criticised the publisher of Sahara Reporters, Omoyele Sowore, describing him as someone whose activities are characterised by persistent controversy and the dissemination of unverified information capable of damaging reputations.
According to Ijele, Sowore’s claims lack credibility and should not be taken seriously, insisting that anyone seeking to contest an elective position in Nigeria must first be registered with and identify with a political party.
“The former IGP only left office about two weeks ago. At what point did he register or identify with any political party to support the claim that he is pursuing a senatorial ambition?” he queried.
Ijele further accused Sahara Reporters of publishing reports that, in his view, are capable of misleading the public and creating unnecessary tension.
He noted that after serving the country, former IGP Kayode Egbetokun should be allowed time to settle into post-service life rather than being subjected to what he described as unfounded allegations.
Referring to a report that Egbetokun had refused to vacate the official IGP residence, Ijele argued that it is common practice for outgoing Inspectors-General to be given reasonable time to arrange alternative accommodation before relocating.
He cited the example of Egbetokun’s predecessor, Usman Alkali Baba, who reportedly remained in the official residence for several months after leaving office before moving out.
Ijele therefore questioned the controversy surrounding Egbetokun’s continued stay in the residence barely two weeks after leaving office.
He also dismissed another report by Sahara Reporters alleging that the Force Public Relations Officer, Benjamin Hundeyi, had been removed from his position.
According to him, while there may have been considerations regarding administrative adjustments, the situation did not amount to a removal as reported.
Ijele maintained that credible media organisations are expected to verify information thoroughly before publishing.
He stressed that Nigeria has many respected media institutions and professional journalists who adhere to ethical standards, urging media platforms to prioritise responsible journalism and accuracy in their reports.