Assistant Inspector General of Police, Zone 16, Adebola Hamzat, has affirmed that the Nigeria Police Force will not protect any officers implicated in land grabbing, extortion, or human rights abuses.
Speaking in Port Harcourt on Thursday, Hamzat emphasized that under the leadership of Inspector General Kayode Egbetokun, the Force is committed to upholding ethical standards and enforcing corrective measures.
“Corruption, extortion, and human rights abuses have been brought to my attention from my discussions with stakeholders in the state,” Hamzat said, addressing journalists before delivering a lecture to officers during his familiarization tour of the Rivers State Police Command. “Such actions tarnish the image of the Police, and I will address these issues with officers here,” he added.
Hamzat reiterated the Police Force’s firm stance against extortion, urging the public to come forward with reports of any misconduct. “We’ve said this repeatedly, and actions are being taken. I encourage people to interact with us, to inform us of any areas where we may be falling short,” he said.
The AIG further assured citizens that reports of wrongdoing would be handled with strict confidentiality, and officers found guilty of misconduct would face appropriate sanctions.
“Land grabbing, human rights abuses, corruption, and extortion are completely unacceptable,” Hamzat stated firmly. “We will not cover for any officer involved in such acts. That’s why I’ve made my personal number available. I am not an armchair AIG; feel free to reach out.”
