Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun on Monday presented Insurance and IGP Family Welfare cheques totalling over N1.5billion to the relatives of 727 fallen Police officers (heroes) who sacrificed their lives in the line of duty for the country.
The cheques encompasses the disbursement of funds under the Group Life Assurance Policy for the 2018/2019, 2021/2022, and 2022/2023 insurance periods, alongside the Inspector General of Police Family Welfare Insurance Scheme for the 2022/2023 insurance year.
The IGP said, “The collective sum, amounting to One Billion, Five Hundred and Ninety-Four Million, Six Hundred and Twenty-Five Thousand, One Hundred and Fifty-One Naira, Sixty-Six kobo (N1,594,625,151.66k), symbolizes our commitment and gratitude towards those who have valiantly served our nation.
“This occasion represents the fifth installment in the ongoing series of cheque presentations since the beginning of this administration, and notably, the second such event in the year 2024.
He noted that five categories benefitted from the presentation “reflecting our diverse commitment to the beneficiaries”.
“The first category comprises cheques amounting to Fifty-Five Million, Seven Hundred and Sixty-Three Thousand, Forty Naira, Ninety-Five Kobo (₦55,763,040.95) for 311 beneficiaries.
“This represents the remaining 5% balance of the Group Life Assurance Policy payments, Batches 9 & 10, for the 2021/2022 insurance year.
“The second category includes cheques totaling Seven Hundred and Sixty-One Million, Four Hundred and Ninety-Seven Thousand, Six Hundred and Ninety-Six Naira, Nineteen Kobo (₦761,497,696.19) for 178 beneficiaries.
“These are 90% of the Group Life Assurance policy payments, Batches 15 & 17 for the 2021/2022 insurance year.
“The third category features cheques in the sum of Five Hundred and Sixty-Seven Million, Five Hundred and One Thousand, Thirty-Nine Naira (₦567,501,039.72), designated for 78 beneficiaries as the full 100% Group Life Assurance policy payment for Batch 9 of the 2022/2023 insurance year.
“The fourth category entails cheques totaling Ninety-Six Million, Eight Hundred and Sixty-Three Thousand, Three Hundred and Seventy-Four Naira, Eighty Kobo (₦96,863,374.80) for 86 beneficiaries, corresponding to 32% of the Group Life Assurance policy payment for Batch 5 of the 2018/2019 insurance year.
“The fifth and final category includes cheques amounting to One Hundred and Thirteen Million, Two Hundred Thousand Naira (₦113,200,000.00), ensuring 100% payment for One Hundred and Forty-Nine (149) beneficiaries in connection with the IGP Family Welfare Scheme, Batches 6 & 7, for the 2022/2023 policy year.
“Through this most recent initiative, the Force has, over the past nine months, collectively disbursed cheques amounting to over N7,26billion to 2,514 families of our departed officers.
“This gesture underscores our deep-seated commitment to honoring the legacy and sacrifice of those who served with valor.
“To the families of our revered heroes, we fully acknowledge that the loss of a family’s primary provider is a profound tragedy that brings significant hardships, including financial strains.
“It is our fervent hope that the financial support provided through these cheques today will offer some measure of relief during these trying times, as we stand with you in remembrance and respect for your loved ones.
“To the dependents of our other late colleagues who have yet to receive their complete entitlements or be included in our records, I want to provide a steadfast assurance.
“This administration is fully committed to resolving all pending claims and backlogs that existed before June 2023, when we assumed office. We vow to continue our efforts without pause until every due benefit has been rightfully disbursed.
Meanwhile, the Force headquarters has debunked recent speculations regarding nepotism and ethnic bias in its administration most especially with regards to postings.
It said, “In light of recent reports, we find it imperative to provide clarity and set the record straight, and highlight the steadfast commitment of the Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, to inclusivity and diversity within the NPF.
“The NPF acknowledges the importance of addressing concerns raised regarding the fairness and impartiality of appointments and postings of officers.
“Regarding the appointment of State Commissioners of Police, it is important to clarify that this process lies within the jurisdiction of the Police Service Commission on recommendations by the Inspector General of Police
“However, it is vital to clarify that this involves wide stakeholders’ consultations including State Governors, who are the chief security officers of their states, and very senior officers both serving and retired.
“The IGP has never unilaterally carried out such postings which are always based on capabilities, hardwork, commitment, and loyalty.
“Equally, the NPF categorically refutes any insinuation of tribal favouritism in appointments and postings.
“The Force operates on principles of meritocracy, ensuring that individuals are selected based on their qualifications, competence, dedication to service, and rank.
“The previous Force Secretary who served under this same administration and whose elevation to the rank of Deputy Inspector General of Police led to the appointment of the current officer was DIG Habu Sani from the North West.
‘Similarly, the current Deputy Force Secretary is an officer from the South Eastern part of the country.
“Also, it is vital to clarify that contrary to the publications, the Commissioner of Police Oyo State hails from North Central, and the Director Peacekeeping Operations hails from Niger State.
“The Force Insurance Officer, whom the allegation claims to also be Yoruba is actually from the North Central.
“It is vital to mention that the appointment of the Principal Staff Officer (PSO) is solely the prerogative of the IGP, who serves as a personal aide and must be a competent individual.
“The personal background and relationships of our leadership, particularly the Inspector General of Police, reflects a commitment to inclusivity and diversity.
“The IGP’s marriage to his wife from Bauchi in the North, and his extensive network and fraternity with friends from across all geopolitical zones affirms his dedication to serving all Nigerians equitably, and crowns him a great nationalist.
“It is pertinent to note that the IGP holds the contributions of retired IGPs and other senior officers in high esteem and values their expertise, including that of the Chairman Police Service Commission which is evidenced by the amazing rapport shared by both institutions in recent times.
“Any suggestion that the current leadership disregards their counsel is unfounded, misleading, and thus mischievous.
“The Nigeria Police Force, as guardians of law and order, maintains an unwavering dedication to professionalism, integrity, and fairness.
“We emphatically denounce the baseless allegations propagated in the SaharaReporters publication, which are rife with distortions and clearly intended to tarnish the reputation of our esteemed institution, a norm by the news platform.
“We urge the public to see through these falsehoods and discountenance the publication which is purely baseless, unfounded and mischievous to please the selfish interest of the publisher and his cronies for reasons best known to them.”
