By Gloria Tochukwu Umeweni
The Coalition of Civil Society Groups for Peace, Security, Good Governance, Equity and Justice (CCSG-PSGEJ) has come out in defence of Assistant Inspector-General of Police, Jimoh Moshood, describing a petition against him by a Lagos-based businessman, Mr. Lai Omotola, as misleading and lacking merit.
In a statement issued in Abuja, the coalition expressed concern over what it termed an attempt to discredit the senior police officer, urging relevant authorities to carefully scrutinize the claims contained in the petition.
The group noted that the recent promotion of AIG Moshood by the Police Service Commission on March 12, 2026, followed due process, including established procedures for assessment and selection. It described the advancement as a reflection of his professional track record and service within the Nigeria Police Force.
According to the coalition, the timing of the petition shortly after the promotion raises questions that should be objectively examined by appropriate authorities.
Addressing allegations referenced in the petition, the group stated that issues relating to property disputes and enforcement actions in Lagos State have involved multiple stakeholders, including government agencies responsible for addressing land-related complaints. It maintained that police involvement in such matters is typically in support of lawful enforcement processes.
The coalition also alluded to previous legal disputes connected to land matters involving the petitioner, emphasizing that such issues remain subject to judicial processes and should be resolved through the courts.
While calling for restraint in public discourse, the group urged the office of Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the police high command, and other relevant institutions to independently review the petition in line with the rule of law.
It further encouraged all parties to avoid inflammatory statements and instead seek redress through lawful and established channels.
The coalition reaffirmed its support for accountability and professionalism within the Nigeria Police Force, while calling on the public to remain calm as due process takes its course.
Efforts to reach Lai Omotola to get his side of the story as of Press time proved Abortive.