“It’s A Declaration Of War On Nigerians” – Sowore Reacts As Police Disperse Protesters
Human rights advocate and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore has described the resignation of Kayode Egbetokun as Inspector-General of Police as proof that his time in office lacked legal backing.
Sowore made the remarks on Wednesday during an appearance on Channels Television’s programme, The Morning Brief.
According to him, “This removal or resignation, however they choose to describe it, is an admission that his tenure was never lawful.”
The activist further accused the former police chief of suppressing officers who demanded improved welfare conditions.
Sowore alleged that after organising a protest in support of better treatment for police personnel, he was arrested, detained, and mistreated at the Force Intelligence Department. He also claimed that officers who shared messages advocating welfare reforms were arrested, dismissed, or detained for extended periods.
He added that during a previous visit to the Force Headquarters while Egbetokun was still in office, he interacted with officers who confided in him about internal challenges within the police force.
Sowore criticised Egbetokun’s leadership style, alleging that he failed to effectively address insecurity or instill professionalism within the force.
“He portrayed himself as tough, but throughout his tenure he failed to curb criminality or reform the system. He simply struggled through his time in office,” Sowore said, stressing the need to uphold principles in public service.
He also argued that extending the tenure of a police chief beyond retirement age without explicit legal authority was improper.
“The principle is simple: if the law does not clearly permit a four-year extension after retirement, it should not be attempted,” he stated.
Additionally, Sowore alleged that the former IGP favoured certain officers for promotion while sidelining others. He claimed that protests within the force eventually resulted in the promotion of 74,000 officers and the retirement of approximately 500 senior personnel.