The Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC) has described the recent comments by the UK Conservative Party leader, Kemi Badenoch, about Nigerian Police as unfair.
PCRC’s national chairman, Mogaji Olaniyan, expressed the view in an interview on Friday in Abuja.
Ms Badenoch had accused the Nigerian police of robbing citizens, saying that some officers stole her brother’s shoes and watch.
She further said the police usually deployed the guns and weapons in their possession to intimidate citizens they are supposed to protect.
However, Mr Olaniyan said a good number of officers in Nigeria had proven to be sincere and professional.
He said the recent rejection of the N20 million bribe by Adegoke Fayoade, an AIG in charge of Zone 2, was an example of integrity and professionalism demonstrated by law enforcement.
The PCRC boss further said the recent arrest of 113 foreigners in the Jahi area of Abuja on November 3 over cybercrime was also an achievement deserving acknowledgement of police efficiency.
“While we are not denying the fact that there are challenges and room for improvement, we must not forget the great dangers of ridiculing our country,” said Mr Olaniyan.
He added, “It is possible that Badenoch or her family members were stopped or interrogated by the police in Nigeria over an issue which prompted that derogatory comments.
“This should never take away or ignore the great works of the police in Nigeria, especially under the current leadership.”
While acknowledging Ms Badenoch’s achievements, Mr Olaniyan urged her to be fair and balance her views on Nigeria. He urged her to avoid sweeping comments and generalisation.
“It is an undeniable fact that many horrible things happened and are still happening in foreign countries, particularly in the UK and U.S., that are not reported by their media.
“Rather than ridiculing the Nigerian police, it would have been better for Badenoch to use her good position to impact positively on the system,” Mr Olaniyan stressed.
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