Police Refutes Claims of IGP’s Involvement In Smuggling Scandal, Erring Officers Face Prosecution
Princess-Ekwi Ajide
The Nigeria Police Force has dismissed allegations linking the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, to a cartel smuggling suspicious new banknotes describing the claims as false and malicious and a deliberate attempt to tarnish the IGP’s reputation.
The scandal stems from an incident on August 26, 2023, at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, involving ₦74.9 million in cash.
Four officers from Zone 7 Headquarters—DSP Peter Ejike, Inspector Ekende Edwin, Inspector Esther Okafor, and Sergeant Talabi Kayode—had been found guilty of unlawfully arresting a cargo company staff and tampering with the seized funds.
Investigations revealed they stole ₦43.1 million and tried to cover their tracks by spreading false information.
The officers have been suspended and will face dismissal and prosecution for criminal conspiracy, theft, and abuse of office.
The police stressed that these actions reflect the individuals involved, not the leadership or integrity of the Force.
The Nigeria Police Force, therefore, urged the public to disregard misinformation aimed at undermining ongoing police reforms and efforts to uphold professionalism in the Force.
