```c
// Option 1: Check for NULL pointers before dereferencing
	if (ioc == NULL || blkg == NULL) {
		return false;
	}
	...

// Option 2: Use a conditional statement to ensure both pointers are valid
	if (ioc && blkg) {
		...
	} else {
		return false;
	}

// Option 3: Use a combined check for NULL pointers
	if (!ioc || !blkg) {
		return false;
	}
	...

// Option 4: Use a dedicated function to check for NULL pointers
	if (!ioc_gq_is_valid(iocg)) {
		return false;
	}
	...

// Option 5: Use a dedicated function to check for NULL pointers and return an error
	if (!ioc_gq_is_valid(iocg)) {
		return false;
	}
	// ...
	return true;
```

**Explanation:**

* **Option 1 and 2** explicitly check for NULL pointers for `ioc` and `blkg` before dereferencing them. This prevents potential crashes caused by dereferencing NULL pointers.
* **Option 3** uses a combined check for both pointers using the logical OR operator (`||`). This makes the code more concise.
* **Option 4** introduces a helper function `ioc_gq_is_valid()` that encapsulates the NULL pointer check, improving code readability and maintainability.
* **Option 5** introduces a dedicated function `ioc_gq_is_valid()` and returns `false` if either `ioc` or `blkg` is NULL. This makes the error handling more explicit.

**Which option is best?**

The best option depends on the specific context and coding style preferences. However, using a dedicated helper function like in Options 4 and 5 is generally recommended for improved code readability, maintainability, and error handling. 
