NPF warns against name-dropping, impersonation, other unlawful activities

Etim Ekpimah

The Nigeria Police Force is deeply concerned about recent reports about the activities of certain individuals who are operating as middlemen, acting as negotiators on behalf of individuals involved in criminal activities currently in Police custody.

Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, said in a statement on Monday that such individuals have been exploiting the names of high-ranking police officers.

He added that the names also include that of the Inspector-General of Police, to intimidate and coerce others.

“We strongly encourage all Nigerians to be vigilant and exercise discernment when approached by anyone using the names of senior Police officers, as this practice not only undermines trust in our law enforcement agencies but also poses a significant threat to the integrity of our justice system,” he said in the statement.

He noted that the police wish to emphasize their commitment to the high standards and principles upon which they are built.

They, however, caution members of their own ranks who may consider colluding with those middlemen to compromise the standards of the force.

The police urged them to refrain from such actions immediately. He added that it was essential to highlight that any officer found engaging in such activities would face severe consequences.

The statement read: “The Nigeria Police Force maintains a strict zero-tolerance policy towards any actions that could tarnish our reputation or compromise the administration of justice.

“In addition to the issues of name-dropping and impersonation, we also wish to draw the public’s attention to the fraudulent activities of individuals who parade themselves as Police auctioneers.

“These fraudsters are not affiliated with the Nigeria Police Force in any official capacity. We want to emphasize that we have duly registered auctioneers who follow established procedures for Conducting public auctions.

“Any deviation from these procedures is unlawful, and we urge the public to be vigilant against fraudulent practices.

“Finally, we reaffirm our commitment to upholding the highest standards of integrity and professionalism within the Nigeria Police Force.

“We urge all Nigerians to have faith in our justice system and to report any suspicious activities to the appropriate authorities, most especially, our already published contacts.

“We are determined to protect the rights and interests of all citizens and to maintain the trust that you place in us as a responsible and civil law enforcement agency.”