IG Urges Nigerians to Report Police Misconduct Directly to Authorities, Not on Social Media.
Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun has called on Nigerians to stop using social media to report police misconduct. Instead, he urged citizens to direct such complaints to the Police Complaints Response Unit.
Speaking at the PPROs/Police Communication Experts’ Conference in Asaba, Delta State, on Monday, the IGP stressed that using social media to address grievances often leads to misunderstandings. He highlighted the media’s significant role in shaping public opinion, warning that unverified information could foster false perceptions.
The IGP emphasized the importance of promoting transparency and accountability within the police force and acknowledged the media as a vital partner in achieving these goals.
“I’m pleased to address the PPROs/Police Communication Experts’ Conference. I extend my gratitude to the governor for hosting this event. This conference is part of our police reform efforts, aimed at building trust and respect, which will help us gain public confidence,” he stated.
Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State, who opened the conference, shared his insights on the challenges of policing in states like Delta and Lagos. He highlighted the importance of countering misinformation and fostering effective communication between the police and the public.
“I want to thank the IGP for his commendable work,” Oborevwori remarked. “As someone who served as Commissioner of Police in Lagos, he is well-equipped to lead policing efforts across Nigeria. Delta and Lagos States are challenging areas for policing; thus, an officer with experience in these states will manage policing in Nigeria effectively.”
Both the IGP and the governor underscored the necessity of public engagement, emphasizing the role of Police Public Relations Officers in correcting misconceptions and showcasing the positive contributions of the police.
