The Nigeria Police Force has reacted strongly to a report published by Sahara Reporters on November 10, 2025, alleging that the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, “smuggled names” into the Nigeria Police Academy admission list.
In a statement issued by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, the Police described the publication as false, malicious, and defamatory, calling it “a barefaced lie, a product of irresponsible and unethical journalism.” The statement noted that the report was a “calculated attempt to mislead Nigerians and malign the reputation of the Nigeria Police Force and its leadership.”
According to the Force, the admission process into the Nigeria Police Academy for the 2025/2026 academic session was transparent, merit-based, and strictly guided by due process. It explained that a total of 370 candidates, representing ten per state, were admitted solely on merit after meeting all academic, physical, and character benchmarks required by the Academy.
The statement further clarified that while recommendations from well-meaning Nigerians, leaders, or institutions may be received, such gestures do not influence the selection process. “Under the watch of IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, no name is smuggled, no slot is sold, and no standard is compromised,” the Force stated.
The Police also challenged Sahara Reporters to produce any verifiable evidence supporting its allegations. “The Nigeria Police Force dares Sahara Reporters to produce a single verifiable name from the approved list that does not meet the stipulated admission requirements. Until such evidence is produced, the report remains what it truly is, a baseless fabrication, an act of journalistic blackmail, and a grave defamation of character,” the statement read.
The Force emphasized that the pattern of misinformation from some media outlets is a direct assault on national institutions and could undermine public trust and national security. It warned that spreading falsehoods against the country’s foremost law enforcement agency is not investigative journalism but subversive propaganda intended to create distrust among citizens.
In addition, the statement strongly cautioned Sahara Reporters to desist from publishing false and malicious information against the Police. “Failure of which the Force will actively consult its legal department and explore appropriate legal redress, including defamation proceedings, against Sahara Reporters and any individuals complicit in this calculated misinformation campaign,” it warned.
The public was urged to disregard the report in its entirety as false and mischievous. The Nigeria Police Force reiterated its commitment to merit, transparency, accountability, and professionalism, stressing that “no amount of blackmail or falsehood will distract the Force from its sacred duty of protecting lives, property, and the integrity of our nation.”
