Former IGPs Meet, Offer To Assist IGP Egbetokun Succeed

By Ayodele Oni

It was another reunion of sorts as the Inspector General of Police, (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun played host to some of his predecessors in office on Wednesday in Abuja.

Under the auspices of Committee of Retired Inspectors-General of Police (IGPs), the forum turned out to be another opportunity for the past Police Chiefs and the incumbent to exchange ideas on security matter and other issues paramount to the office.

During the occasion, the former IGPs  pledged to support the incumbent Egbetokun on the issues of policy and security as well as strategy in the country.

The meeting was attended by past IGP Aliyu Attah; Sunday Ehindero, IGP Mike Okiro, Mohammed Abubakar and the 21st Inspector-General of Police, IGP Alkali Baba Usman.

Speaking after the meeting, IGP Mohammed Abubakar (Rtd), who spoke on behalf of the retired IGPs stated that they have come together to facilitate a meaningful dialogue for the purpose of fortifying the foundation of effective policing in Nigeria.

“The essence of our coming today is to sit down with the Inspectors General of Police  to rub minds on the issues of policy and security and strategy in this country.

“And we shall continue to do this because we are police and police is us, just like you are. You know the challenging situation in this country and therefore the Inspectors General of Police and all of you need experience, expertise and technical know-how to be able to discharge your responsibilities of protection of life and property”

IGP Egbetokun acknowledged the invaluable contributions of the past IGPs who are doyens in Policing, emphasizing that their tenures have constructed solid foundations for the NPF, with each past IGP playing a pivotal role in reforming the Nigeria Police Force to match up with its peers across the globe.

“All of you contributed immensely to the growth and development of the Nigerian Police Force. And I want to assure you that we are building on the foundations that you laid.

“I also want to say that for about one hour that I have been in meeting with these retired inspectors general police, I found out that the engagement I had with them this morning had been the most useful engagement I’ve ever had since I became district general police.”