Setting The Record Straight On The So-Called “IGP’s Boys” Narrative -By Danjuma Lamido

In recent days, a troubling narrative has been pushed into the public space by investigative journalist Fisayo Soyombo, branding two police personnel, Adamu Sani and SP Austine, as “IGP’s boys.”

This claim is not only misleading; it is reckless, sensational, and injurious to due process. It deserves a firm and factual response.

First, let it be stated without ambiguity: Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has never had “boys” in the Nigeria Police Force.

The IGP does not run a private clique within the Force, nor does he shield officers from accountability.

The Nigeria Police is an institution governed by rules, chains of command, and oversight mechanisms, not personal loyalty networks.

Contrary to the impression created by Soyombo’s publication, Adamu Sani and SP Austine never, at any time, identified themselves as “IGP’s boys.”

That label was externally imposed to inflame public sentiment and create the false impression of institutional protection.

Such insinuations are unfair to the officers involved and, more importantly, unfair to the office of the IGP.

It is also important to put the facts on record regarding the allegation of extortion.

The Nigeria Police Force Complaint Response Unit (CRU) is already seized of the matter involving the alleged extortion of ₦10 million from Lukman Abubakar, an Abuja-based businessman.

The CRU exists precisely for moments like this, to receive complaints, investigate impartially, and recommend appropriate action without fear or favour.

This process is ongoing, and it must be allowed to run its full course.

Equally mischievous is the claim that the Force Intelligence Department (FID) is “close to the IGP’s office,” insinuating undue influence or proximity designed to compromise investigations.

This is false. FID is a structured department of the Force with its own operational protocols. Suggesting otherwise is a deliberate attempt to smear the institution and cast doubt on its internal checks.

The growing tendency to sensationalize allegations before investigations are concluded is deeply concerning.

Online platform owners and publishers must recommit to objectivity and responsibility.

Click-driven reportage that substitutes conjecture for evidence undermines public trust and poisons civic discourse.

Journalism should illuminate facts, not manufacture narratives.

Finally, I urge Nigerians to exercise patience and restraint.

Let us await the outcome of the CRU’s investigation rather than rush to judgment.

Accountability thrives where due process is respected. If wrongdoing is established, the law will take its course. If not, reputations unjustly maligned should be restored.

Nigeria deserves a Police Force that is firm, fair, and accountable, and a media ecosystem that reports responsibly. We must not sacrifice truth on the altar of sensation.

Danjuma Lamido writes from Yola, Adamawa State. email: danjumalamido2011@gmail.com