A viral video showing Lagos State Commissioner of Police CP Tijani Fatai in full uniform at the inauguration of the City Boy Movement's Lagos State Chapter Executive Committee has ignited a political firestorm. The event, held in Ikeja on Tuesday, July 28, was organized by a youth-led sociopolitical group openly aligned with President Bola Tinubu's Renewed Hope Agenda and mobilizing support for the 2027 general elections.
Video Shows Commissioner Mingling with Political Supporters
The footage circulating online captures CP Fatai arriving at the venue, greeting dignitaries, and moving through the crowd alongside attendees wearing caps bearing President Tinubu's campaign logo and the initials "ST", widely interpreted as referring to Seyi Tinubu, the President's son. The master of ceremonies is heard announcing, "The CP Tijani Fatai and his entourage. And please, we welcome them." The event included pledges to mobilize millions of votes across the South-West for APC-aligned candidates.
City Boy Movement and Its Political Ties
The City Boy Movement describes itself as a youth-led sociopolitical group dedicated to grassroots mobilization, youth empowerment, and backing candidates of the All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the 2027 elections. Its Lagos chapter inauguration marked a key step in consolidating support for the ruling party in the region.
Opposition party Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) swiftly condemned the commissioner's attendance. In a statement issued Tuesday, the NDC argued that his presence at a politically charged event "casts serious doubt on his ability to remain impartial in the discharge of his duties, particularly as the country edges closer to the 2027 elections."
NDC's Four Demands
The NDC made four specific demands: first, the immediate suspension and sanctioning of CP Fatai by the Nigeria Police Force authorities; second, a firm public commitment from the commissioner to neutrality during the 2027 electoral process; third, guaranteed protection for voters and supporters of opposition candidates; and fourth, the commissioner's resignation, which the party said had become necessary following what it described as conduct that "denigrated the police institution."
Debate Over Police Neutrality Intensifies
The video has continued to generate intense debate online, with many Nigerians questioning whether a serving police commissioner should be seen at an event organized by a movement closely associated with the ruling party and its 2027 campaign drive. Critics argue that such appearances undermine public trust in the police's impartiality, especially as the country prepares for another election cycle.
As of press time, the Nigeria Police Force had not issued an official response to the NDC's demands. The controversy adds to growing concerns about the politicization of security agencies ahead of the 2027 polls.
