Police deny claim on alleged POWA dues, announce IED simulation exercise in Lagos

The Lagos State Police Command has dismissed as false and malicious a media report alleging that senior officers of the Nigeria Police Force were directed to remit N6,000 each as 2025 Police Officers’ Wives Association (POWA) dues to the office of Mrs. Elizabeth Egbetokun, wife of the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) and current POWA President.

The report, published by Sahara Reporters, claimed that the compulsory deductions were linked to the IGP’s wife. However, in a statement issued on Wednesday by the Command’s spokesperson, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, the Police described the allegation as “a figment of imagination” aimed at misleading the public.

“At no time in the past or present were officers ordered to pay dues to the IGP’s wife or her office, as mischievously stated in the report,” Hundeyin stressed. “The story is extremely malicious, unfounded, and outrightly false.”

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The Command urged the public to disregard the publication, reaffirming that no such directive exists within the Force.

Meanwhile, the Command has announced that the Explosives Ordnance Disposal–Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear (EOD-CBRN) Unit will on Thursday, August 28, 2025, conduct an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) simulation exercise at Eko Atlantic City, Lagos.

According to Hundeyin, the controlled drill is designed to boost the Police’s preparedness and response to bomb-related emergencies. He assured residents, workers, and visitors within the vicinity that although controlled blast sounds will be heard, there will be no danger to lives or property.

The statement reads: “Members of the public are advised to remain calm and go about their lawful duties without panic during the exercise. Adequate safety measures have been put in place to ensure the drill is carried out without risk.”

The Commissioner of Police, CP Olohundare Jimoh, appealed for public cooperation, emphasizing the Command’s commitment to the safety, security, and well-being of Lagosians.