Africa
When A Troubled Activist Targets A Transparent Police Chief -By Danjuma Lamido
Sowore’s bitterness cannot dim the truth. His attacks are not born out of patriotism but of envy and frustration. Nigeria deserves better than the endless noise of an attention-seeking agitator who has lost both credibility and conscience.
Omoyele Sowore’s recent outburst against the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, is nothing short of another desperate attempt by a man who thrives on controversy to remain relevant in national discourse.
For a long time, Sowore has sought public attention by attacking credible leaders, and this time, his target happens to be a man whose integrity and forthrightness are beyond question.
It is obvious that Sowore has been looking for an avenue to be noticed, hence his continued obsession with the Inspector-General of Police. His so-called “criticism” of Egbetokun’s profound statement, “The truth is that a nation’s first line of defence is not its army; it is its people: educated, disciplined, and united by the rule of law,” only exposes his deep-seated bitterness rather than any genuine concern for the nation.
For someone like Sowore, who has lived off foreign donations and thrives on organising disruptive protests under the guise of activism, it is hypocritical to accuse IGP Egbetokun of dishonesty.
What moral right does he have to question the integrity of a man who has served Nigeria with diligence, restraint, and transparency?
Egbetokun’s record in the Nigeria Police Force speaks for itself. He has never been associated with lawlessness, abuse of power, or any form of misconduct. Under his leadership, the Nigeria Police Force has witnessed a culture of professionalism, accountability, and renewed public confidence.
If Sowore claims otherwise, he should come forward with verifiable evidence rather than hiding behind social media to make baseless allegations.
Contrary to the misinformation being peddled by Sowore, IGP Egbetokun did not extend his tenure in office. The Police Act 2020 (as amended) clearly stipulates a four-year tenure for the Inspector-General of Police, and Egbetokun’s administration has adhered strictly to that provision. His respect for due process and the rule of law is evident in every aspect of his leadership.
Furthermore, there is no record of Egbetokun ever ordering armed police to shoot at defenceless minors during the #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria protests.
Such lies only expose Sowore’s desperation to discredit a man whose integrity he cannot fault. The truth remains that minors are not above the law; any individual who violates the Constitution must be held accountable, regardless of age.
It is also laughable that Sowore would accuse Egbetokun of promoting “unqualified officers”.
The Nigeria Police Force, under his watch, has maintained merit-based promotions driven by professionalism, hard work, and qualifications. There has been no evidence of nepotism or tribal favouritism.
If Sowore has any, let him name one of Egbetokun’s kinsmen who has been rewarded with any so-called “juicy” posting.
The truth is simple: Sowore is bitter. He is angry that IGP Egbetokun has refused to indulge him with monetary rewards as some previous police leaders allegedly did. His frustration is not about national interest but about personal gain and lost privileges.
IGP Kayode Egbetokun remains a man of honesty, forthrightness, and vision, a leader committed to restoring public trust in the police and upholding the rule of law. Those who live on falsehood, like Sowore, will always find integrity threatening.
In the end, Sowore’s bitterness cannot dim the truth. His attacks are not born out of patriotism but of envy and frustration. Nigeria deserves better than the endless noise of an attention-seeking agitator who has lost both credibility and conscience.
Danjuma Lamido writes from Yola, Adamawa. email: danjumalamido2011@gmail.com
