Police Officers Have No Business With Land Recovery – IGP Egbetokun

The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has issued a stern warning to officers of the Nigerian Police Force, insisting that the force will not serve as a tool for private land recovery or civil disputes.

Egbetokun made the statement while addressing the recent confrontation between police personnel and soldiers during an attempt by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, to reclaim a disputed parcel of land. 

The clash, which drew nationwide attention, reportedly occurred after police officers accompanied the minister’s team to enforce the recovery, leading to a face-off with army operatives deployed to secure the area.

Speaking firmly on the matter, the police chief emphasised that such involvement violates the principles of professionalism and neutrality that the force stands for. 

“Let me reiterate without ambiguity that the Nigerian Police Force is not, and will never become, an enforcer for private interests,” Egbetokun declared. 

“Officers have no business escorting parties for land recovery, disrupting legally existing occupations, or meddling in civil claims without a demonstrable criminal element.”

He cautioned that officers who engage in such activities risk severe disciplinary measures, noting that such actions damage public trust and the integrity of the institution. 

“Every such incident erodes the neutrality of the force and opens us up to disrepute,” he added. “The line must be clear, and any officer who crosses it will face consequences.”

Security analysts have described Egbetokun’s remarks as a move to restore public confidence in the police following several allegations of officers being used to enforce private or political interests in property disputes.

The warning could help prevent future confrontations between security agencies, especially in the capital, where jurisdictional conflicts have often caused tension.

Egbetokun’s position, according to police sources, aligns with ongoing reforms within the force aimed at promoting professionalism and reinforcing public accountability in policing.

The statement is seen as part of broader efforts to draw a firm boundary between civil and criminal responsibilities, ensuring that the police remain a neutral and lawful institution in all disputes.