Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has taken a firm stand against the illegal police mobilisation fee practice. He declared this during the Nigerian Bar Association’s Annual General Conference in Enugu, drawing strong applause from attendees. His message was clear and direct—police officers have no right to request mobilisation fees before carrying out their lawful duties.
Egbetokun explained that such demands go against the ethics of policing. He urged Nigerians to reject and report them. He emphasized that law enforcement exists to serve the public, not to exploit them. According to him, the Police Force has never approved or supported the mobilisation fee culture.
Read more: Togo Launched Second Phase of Business Census
He responded to a direct question from a lawyer about this troubling trend. Without hesitation, he stated that the “issue of mobilisation is unknown to the Nigerian Police.” His response sparked immediate attention and praise from many in the room. He admitted that the problem exists in certain quarters but assured the public it will not be ignored.
Egbetokun noted that leadership must confront misconduct, not deny it. He said steps are already in motion to discipline erring officers. He stressed the need for public trust and warned that unethical behaviour weakens that trust. In his words, the force cannot move forward if the people do not believe in it.
To rebuild that trust, Egbetokun revealed an important development. Over 250 lawyers, soon to be called to the bar, will join the Nigeria Police Force. These lawyers will serve within the legal directorate and help uphold justice from within the institution. He believes this move will help clean up the system from the inside out.
According to Egbetokun, the addition of these new legal minds will ensure more professionalism in how police handle complaints. He said legal support will also guide officers and help prevent human rights violations. The decision shows a serious commitment to change and legal accountability.
He reminded everyone that the police have a duty to act on issues that threaten peace. He said citizens should never feel afraid or obligated to pay before receiving help. The law empowers the police to respond quickly and fairly. Asking for mobilisation fees, he noted, delays justice and harms the people.
Egbetokun said any officer caught making such demands will face immediate disciplinary action. He urged citizens to speak up and file complaints when such cases arise. He gave assurance that the police will follow up and take action.
His message comes at a time when Nigerians are demanding more from public institutions. Many citizens have experienced frustration when seeking police help, especially in emergencies. The illegal demand for funds before any response has become too common. Egbetokun’s statement offers some hope that this culture may soon end.
He called on the Nigerian Bar Association to partner with the police in public education. According to him, awareness can empower people to resist corruption. He believes that only joint effort between police and society can bring lasting change.
This strong stance on the police mobilisation fee sends a clear message. Reform is not optional—it is urgent. The Nigerian people deserve a police force they can trust, one that serves without compromise.
