Opinion
National Police Day: Honouring Legacy Must Not Be Selective -By Danjuma Lamido
Recognition should never be selective, and institutional memory must be preserved with integrity. Anything less diminishes the very essence of what the day stands for.
Nigeria’s journey toward institutional pride and recognition for its security forces reached a symbolic milestone with the establishment of National Police Day.
What many may not fully appreciate, however, is that this national observance did not emerge in isolation.
It evolved from an award ceremony initiative championed by Lenders Consult, a platform that sought to celebrate excellence within the Nigeria Police Force.
That initiative caught national attention and ultimately inspired President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to formally declare April 7 as National Police Day.
That singular decision transformed a private recognition effort into a national institution, one that now rightly honours the sacrifices, courage, and service of police personnel across the country.
Yet, beyond the declaration lies the question of execution and legacy. It was former Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, who must be credited as the pioneer IGP to give life and structure to the celebration.
Under his leadership, National Police Day was not just marked, it was institutionalised through a week-long series of activities held nationwide. This framework elevated the day from mere symbolism to meaningful engagement, fostering a deeper connection between the police and the citizens they serve.
Fast forward to 2026, the National Police Day celebration at Eagle Square was a grand affair. Representing the President was Vice President Kashim Shettima, underscoring the importance the current administration places on the event.
The presence of distinguished former Inspectors-General of Police, including Ogbonnaya Onovo, Mohammed Abubakar, Kayode Egbetokun, Suleiman Abba, and Usman Alkali Baba, further reinforced the continuity and shared heritage of the Force.
However, amid the pomp and ceremony, a troubling oversight emerged.
The official press release issued by the Nigeria Police Force and signed by the Force Public Relations Officer, Anthony Placid, conspicuously omitted the name of the pioneer IGP of National Police Day, Kayode Egbetokun. This omission raises uncomfortable questions. Was it an administrative lapse, an editorial oversight, or something more concerning?
One cannot help but wonder: is a figure of such institutional significance now too “small” to be acknowledged in an official communication? That notion is both troubling and unacceptable.
Even more disheartening were reports suggesting that the seating arrangements for former IGPs did not reflect the dignity and respect befitting their offices and contributions.
Institutions thrive on memory, continuity, and respect for legacy. Former IGPs are not just retired officials; they are custodians of institutional history. Their service, sacrifices, and reforms form the foundation upon which current leadership stands. To diminish their recognition, whether by omission or protocol missteps, is to erode the very traditions that sustain the Force.
It is particularly ironic that President Tinubu, in his speech, reportedly acknowledged the pioneer role of Egbetokun, yet the official police communication failed to do the same. Such inconsistencies weaken public confidence in institutional coherence and attention to detail.
That said, it is heartening that the majority of media organisations rose to the occasion by duly recognising Egbetokun’s role and presence.
This corrective effort by the press underscores the importance of independent journalism in preserving historical accuracy and accountability.
There is no denying that Kayode Egbetokun left behind a legacy of reforms, professionalism, and vision within the Nigeria Police Force.
His contributions to the establishment and structure of National Police Day alone secure him a place in the annals of the Force’s history—one that cannot and should not be erased by omission.
As National Police Day continues to evolve, it must remain anchored in truth, inclusivity, and respect.
Recognition should never be selective, and institutional memory must be preserved with integrity. Anything less diminishes the very essence of what the day stands for.
Danjuma Lamido is a public affairs analyst based in Yola, Adamawa State. email: danjumalamido2011@gmail.com
