The Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has vowed to rescue all Nigerians currently held captive by kidnappers across the country. In a strong commitment to combating kidnapping, Egbetokun assured the public that the police would not rest until every victim is safely returned to their families.
Egbetokun made this promise during a meeting at the Force Headquarters, reflecting on the recent successful rescue of 20 medical students from the University of Maiduguri and Plateau State University. These students were abducted in Benue while traveling to a conference in Enugu State. The IG highlighted this operation as an example of the police force’s determination to protect citizens and bring an end to the scourge of kidnapping.
A recent report by Statisense, a data collection organization, revealed that in 2023 alone, 2,149 Nigerians were kidnapped across the country. The report detailed the distribution of these cases, showing that the North-West region recorded the highest number of kidnappings with 759 cases, followed by the North Central with 476 cases, and the North-East with 408 cases. The South-South, South-East, and South-West regions reported 216, 191, and 99 cases, respectively.
The police spokesperson, Muyiwa Adejobi, conveyed Egbetokun’s commitment to ensuring that the police force under his leadership would be professional, law-abiding, and focused on serving the people.
“The Inspector General of Police reaffirms the dedication of the Police, under his leadership, to assiduously emplace a Police Force that is professionally competent, rule-of-law compliant, service-driven, and people-friendly. The IGP assures the public of the safe rescue of all Nigerians in captivity across the country. This is our pledge, and we will ensure its fulfillment,” Adejobi stated.
Egbetokun also expressed deep appreciation for the support received from various quarters during the rescue of the medical students. He particularly thanked the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, other security agencies, and local community members for their roles in the successful operation.
“The IGP acknowledges the NSA’s dedication to lending a helping hand to security forces in fulfilling their constitutional responsibilities of safeguarding the lives and property of Nigerian citizens, as well as upholding law and order throughout the nation,” Adejobi quoted.
Egbetokun further emphasized the importance of an all-inclusive approach to policing and called on citizens to take an active role in national security and development initiatives. He urged for greater collaboration between the police, other security agencies, and government bodies at all levels to achieve a safer Nigeria.
“This call aims to foster a shift towards modern policing and to promote socioeconomic and political advancement in Nigeria,” he added.
The IG also stressed the need for citizen volunteerism and a collective effort in restructuring social and security frameworks across the country.
His vision for a “new Nigeria” includes enhanced national security and good governance for all, achieved through unity and cooperation among all stakeholders.