FCT CP is known for propaganda, journalist writes IGP

Kingsley Mba, an investigative journalist has asked the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Olukayode Egbetokun to move the new Federal Capital Territory Commissioner of Police, Benneth Igweh away from Nigeria’s capital.

Igweh assumed office in early February as the 31st FCT police commissioner.

He replaced Haruna Garba who was recently promoted to the rank of Assistant Inspector General of Police.

In a letter to Egbetokun, Mba alleged that Igweh’s appointment as FCT police boss has left many residents of Abuja including him bewildered and dismayed, “particularly in light of his troubling history and conduct both within the FCT and in other states,” as reported by Sahara Reporters.

In his open letter to the Inspector General of Police, the journalist said, “We are writing to you as the ultimate authority responsible for maintaining ethical standards, discipline and promoting ethical behaviour within the Nigeria police force.

“The announcement of CP Igweh’s appointment as Commissioner of Police for the FCT has left many of us who have resided in Abuja for decades bewildered and dismayed, particularly in light of his troubling history and conduct both within the FCT and in other states.

“Despite previous investigations and near dismissal, CP Igweh’s ascent highlights a concerning lack of scrutiny in the selection process for such critical leadership positions within the police force and sadly continues to demotivate officers of excellent standing that uphold the rule of law.

“While acknowledging your commitment to enhancing public safety in the FCT, CP Igweh’s appointment raises serious questions about prioritising the fight against crime above all other interests.

“The placement of individuals with questionable track records to critical positions, particularly where they have direct command over citizens wellbeing, undermines the trust and confidence of the public in the police force, jeopardizing efforts to maintain the highest ethical standards.

“Furthermore, there is a legitimate concern that CP Igweh’s appointment may embolden unethical practices within the police force, potentially compromising public safety and exacerbating existing challenges.

“His rhetoric and theatrical stunts about how criminals should flee Abuja because he is now in charge and how he slept in the gutter for days to catch criminals soon after his appointment, were not only laughable to those of us who have monitored and reported on his actions for over a decade but demonstrates his cunning ability to hoodwink, sweet talk and sway opinion in order that he could continue his deals unabated.

“Our courage to continue to write and expose his actions to a large extent checkmated him in the last few years.”

He added, “CP Igweh represents the worst of the Nigeria police force, akin to Abba Kyari, who continues to use the media to deceive unsuspecting and gullible members of the public.

“Sir, are you not aware or you have chosen to ignore how he lobbied tirelessly, but in futility your predecessor IGP Alkali Baba? Who, to his credit steadfastly resisted succumbing to sycophancy in appointing CP Igweh as the Commissioner of Police for the FCT.

“It is a known fact how in his few weeks in office he has called some Divisional Police Officers and Area Commanders to protect some criminal cartels and your police officers are unable and fearful of reporting Igwe’s actions because you have announced this character to charge over all activities in the entire FCT. Already there is worrying discontent about his criminal orders.

“In conclusion, we urge you to prioritize the interests of public safety above all else. It is essential that steps are taken to address the concerns raised by CP Igweh’s appointment and to restore public confidence in the leadership of the FCT police force.”

CP Igweh was born on October 7, 1968. He hails from Akatta Oru-East Local Government Area in Imo State.

He attended the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Enugu State, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Estate Management.

CP Igweh was enlisted into the Nigeria Police Force in 1996 as a Cadet Assistant Superintendent of Police and was trained at the Police Academy, Wudil, Kano State