Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun: The Mark of Leadership – Rising Above Provocation -By John Egbeazien Oshodi

Inspector General Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, let me speak to you directly as one professional to another, as someone who understands the weight of the role you carry. You do not simply hold a title—you bear the responsibility of leadership, of justice, of maintaining order in a nation as complex as Nigeria. That responsibility demands strength, focus, and an unwavering sense of purpose.

In recent weeks, you have been called many things. Governor Siminalayi Fubara referred to you as “wicked and fraudulent.” Activist Omoyele Sowore labeled you an “illegal IGP.” These are not just random words—they are calculated provocations. But, Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, these words do not define you. They do not diminish your authority, your integrity, or the mission you have sworn to uphold.

You have been trained for moments like this. As a seasoned law enforcement officer, you know that power invites criticism. Insults, abuses, and baseless accusations will come—not because you are weak, but because you are visible. The higher the office, the louder the noise. But the true test of leadership is not in how you are attacked; it is in how you respond.

Take inspiration from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the very man who appointed you. He, too, has been ridiculed, insulted, and dragged through the court of public opinion. In 2022, he famously said:

“I don’t need social media anymore. They abused the hell out of me. If I read it, I will have high blood pressure and I get angry, so I don’t read it.”

This is the wisdom of a leader who understands that his focus must remain on the mission, not on the noise. Today, despite all the criticism, Tinubu is President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria—proof that true leaders rise above distractions. Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, you, too, must adopt this mindset.

You do not need to confront every critic. You do not need to respond to every insult. Your position as Inspector General of Police is already a testament to your competence. You do not need validation from Sowore, from Fubara, or from anyone else. The respect that matters is the respect earned through dedication, service, and results—and that is something no critic can take away from you.

On the Case Against Omoyele Sowore

IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, I must ask you—why bring unnecessary global attention to yourself and the NPF over this matter? Sowore is not just an ordinary citizen. He is a former presidential candidate, a known human rights activist, and a figure recognized internationally. His words may sting, but engaging in legal battles with him only amplifies his voice and brings unnecessary scrutiny to the Nigeria Police Force.

The Cybercrime Act, under which Sowore has been charged, is already controversial. Section 24 has been widely criticized for its vague language, making it vulnerable to misuse. In recent years, the Nigeria Police Force has leaned heavily on this law to charge critics and dissenters, creating a dangerous narrative that the NPF is an institution that suppresses free speech rather than upholding justice.

I plead with you, IGP Egbetokun—think beyond the moment. Pursuing this case might bring temporary legal victory, but in the long run, it may cause more harm than good. It will bring unwanted international attention and create an unnecessary political and human rights controversy. The world is watching. You are bigger than this.

Sowore’s words are just that—words. They do not shake your position. They do not change the fact that you are the Inspector General of Police, duly appointed by the President of Nigeria. They do not weaken your authority. Let them go.

You have already shown great restraint with Governor Fubara. Despite his immunity shielding him from prosecution, he called you names, he tested your patience, yet you did not escalate the situation. That is maturity. That is professionalism. That is wisdom. I am urging you to extend the same restraint to Sowore’s case.

Letting this issue go does not make you weak—it makes you strong. It shows that you know your worth, you know your mission, and you will not be distracted.

Your Legacy

Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, what do you want your legacy to be? Do you want to be remembered as the IGP who rose above provocations, who led the NPF with integrity, and who refused to be drawn into distractions? Or do you want to be remembered as the IGP who allowed critics to pull him into unnecessary battles that could have been avoided?

Your mission is far greater than any critic’s words. Your focus should be on securing Nigeria, reforming the NPF, and building a police force that commands the respect and trust of the people. This case with Sowore is a distraction. It is not worth your time, your energy, or the reputation of the NPF.

IGP, rise above this. Show Nigeria and the world that you are more than just the title of Inspector General—you are a true leader. Sowore’s words will pass. His criticisms will fade. But your legacy as a strong, disciplined, and wise leader will remain.

You have already proven your competence. You do not need to prove it again.

Let this matter go, IGP Egbetokun. Not for Sowore, not for your critics, but for yourself, for your mission, and for the greater good of Nigeria.

True leadership is knowing which battles to fight and which to walk away from. This is one you should walk away from.

History will remember you for it.

John Egbeazien Oshodi

Professor John Egbeazien Oshodi is a distinguished American psychologist, educator, and author, known for his expertise in cross-cultural psychology, forensic/clinical psychology, police and prison science, and social justice. Born in Uromi, Edo State, Nigeria, he is the son of a father who served in the Nigeria Police Force for 37 years.

Oshodi has made significant contributions to forensic psychology, notably introducing it into Nigeria in 2011 through the National Universities Commission (NUC) and at Nasarawa State University. His academic career spans several institutions, including Florida Memorial University, Florida International University, Broward College, and Nova Southeastern University.

He currently serves as a government consultant for forensic-clinical psychological services in the USA, while practicing as a clinical and forensic psychologist. He also holds virtual faculty roles at Walden University, Weldios University, and ISCOM University.

In addition to his academic and professional work, Professor Oshodi has authored numerous publications and public opinion pieces on African governance challenges. He is the founder of the Psychoafricalysis theory in psychology, which has contributed to the field’s development.

Professor Oshodi’s work continues to inspire scholars and practitioners worldwide. He is a former Secretary-General of the Nigeria Psychological Association (NPA), and his contributions have had a lasting impact on both psychology and social justice discourse in Africa.