The Nigeria Police Force has refuted a viral report claiming that the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, instructed citizens to attack or throw stones at police officers who attempt to search their phones during stop-and-search operations.
In a statement issued on Monday by the Force Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the police dismissed the allegation as false and baseless, describing it as a deliberate effort to spread misinformation.
The police urged members of the public to disregard the misleading report and emphasised the need for accurate information to maintain public trust and uphold the rule of law.
The statement said, “The Nigeria Police Force wishes to address a viral fake news story that has emerged, claiming that Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, PhD, NPM., has instructed citizens to physically assault and throw stones at police officers who request to search their phones.
“This claim is entirely false and has no basis in reality. The IGP has not issued any such directive encouraging violence against law enforcement officers. Instead, he has called on citizens to report instances of police misconduct through appropriate channels. This approach underscores the importance of accountability and maintaining the rule of law, rather than resorting to violent actions.
“Members of the public are urged to make use of the following Police helplines & contacts to lay complaints whenever necessary: +2347056792065, +2349133333785, +2349133333786, #PoliceNG on X, #ngpolice on Facebook, and #nigeriapoliceforce on Instagram.
“Citizens can also contact us by mail through; [email protected] and reach us through the police website at npf.gov.ng.”
The police also appealed to the public to remain vigilant against misinformation and ensure they verify news through credible sources.
“Members of the public are advised to remain vigilant against misinformation and verify information through credible sources. The Nigeria Police Force remains committed to fostering a cooperative and trustful relationship between the police and the communities they serve,” the statement said.
, Kayode Egbetokun, instructed citizens to attack or throw stones at police officers who attempt to search their phones during stop-and-search operations. ){kind=link}