IGP Declines Taking Photos with Random People After Image with Suspected Fraudster Goes Viral

Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has announced that he will no longer take photographs with random individuals.

The decision follows the circulation of a viral documentary that included an image of the IGP alongside a suspected financial fraudster. The documentary details a case in which a Romanian woman was allegedly defrauded of $2.5 million.

The photo showed the suspect posing with Egbetokun in his police uniform. Analysts have noted that fraudsters often use images with prominent figures to create an impression of legitimacy. The documentary also featured other suspected fraudsters photographed with well-known Nigerians, including business leaders and entertainers.

Speaking at a recent public event, the IGP emphasized that his decision is a precautionary measure, not a display of arrogance.

“I would want to apologize to those distinguished individuals whose photo opportunities I have declined. This decision is not driven by pride but by caution at a time when photo opportunities granted at special occasions can be weaponized,” he said.