THIS DAWN — Human rights activist and 2023 presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC), Omoyele Sowore, has sharply criticised the Nigeria Police Force over its handling of the mass abduction of schoolgirls in Kebbi State.
Sowore made the remarks while reacting to the Police statement over the abduction.
In a series of strongly worded statements posted on X (formerly Twitter), the activist accused the Police of incompetence.
He further accused the police of lacking in initiative and would, rather, prioritise political intimidation over citizens’ security.
Sowore described the police statements as a mere repetition of claims earlier made by the Kebbi State Commissioner of Police.
According to him, there were no added intelligence or strategic direction from the Force Headquarters.
Knocks Egbetokun
He argued that such responses solidify public doubts about the Federal leadership of the Police under Inspector General Kayode Egbetokun.
Sowore criticised the Police for what he described as consistent failure to prevent terrorist attacks and protect vulnerable communities.
He regretted that the Police can hardly respond proactively to worsening insecurity across the country.
The activist said the Force had become notorious for arresting activists, journalists, and government critics under alleged “cybercrime” offences.
Meanwhile, they ignore their constitutional duty to safeguard the lives and rights of Nigerians.
“You people have failed this nation terribly,” he wrote, condemning a security architecture that he said appears more invested in political errands than national protection.
He further chastised Police Force spokesperson, accusing him of defending institutional failures instead of confronting them.
The activist extended his criticism to IGP Egbetokun, whom he described as presiding over a Police Force that has drifted away from professionalism.
According to Sowore, the leadership’s priorities have undermined public confidence at a time when terrorism, kidnappings, and banditry continue to ravage communities, particularly in the North.
The abduction of the schoolgirls was yet another incident in Nigeria’s long list of school-targeted attacks.
It has reignited conversations on government accountability and the urgent need for comprehensive security reforms.
