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 allegations of police brutality under his supervision.
The group’s requests come after the arrest and reported maltreatment of Peace Corps of Nigeria (PCN) Commandant Dickson Akoh and other officers, which they say illustrates an increase in abusive behaviors within the police force.
During an impromptu press conference in Abuja, coalition leaders denounced the IGP for purportedly ordering Akoh’s detention over a tenancy dispute.
Armed officers reportedly attacked the Peace Corps headquarters in Jabi, Abuja, bursting into Akoh’s office and arresting him and 16 other employees. According to witnesses, the officers, accompanied by thugs, forced entry, destroyed property, and plundered offices before arresting Akoh.
The coalition, which included 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 to the IGP, demanding that Akoh and other detained personnel be released by October 28, 2024, as well as an apology to the Peace Corps and NSCDC.
In a powerful statement, they added, “The Nigeria Police Force, under IGP Egbetokun, is turning into an instrument of terror against Nigerians.”
They urged quick remedial action to prevent a large-scale peaceful protest by youth, students, and civil society stakeholders at the National Assembly and police headquarters if their demands were not addressed.
The coalition also requested that the Peace Corps headquarters, which was purportedly closed following the arrests, be opened so that activities at the organization’s offices may resume.
