Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has clarified why security operatives do not immediately arrest bandits who voluntarily show up for peace negotiations across the country.
Speaking during a press briefing, the Police Chief said individuals who willingly seek peace are treated differently from armed criminals who continue to carry out violent attacks.
According to him, the Nigeria Police Force will not shut the door on those who genuinely want to surrender and embrace peace.
“Criminals who want to embrace peace — we won’t shut the door to them. If they want to surrender, they are welcome. But that does not mean we are going to relax our stance on them,”
Egbetokun stated.
He noted that while dialogue is ongoing with some groups, security agencies are still intensifying operations against bandits who refuse to drop their weapons.
Egbetokun said the dual approach — enforcement and dialogue — is part of the government’s wider strategy to reduce killings and restore stability in troubled communities.
The clarification comes amid heightened insecurity nationwide and follows the recent rescue of 38 kidnapped worshippers from the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) in Kwara State.
The IGP also condemned increasing attacks on police officers carrying out lawful duties, urging Nigerians to report incidents to relevant authorities instead of resorting to jungle justice.
As the country continues to confront widespread banditry and kidnapping, the police chief emphasized that authorities remain committed to protecting citizens while exploring every lawful avenue to achieve lasting peace.
