Egbetokun Resigns as IGP Amid Tenure Controversy
Kayode Egbetokun has resigned from his position as Inspector-General of Police (IGP), amid lingering controversy surrounding his tenure in office since 2024.
A source within the Presidency disclosed on Tuesday that Egbetokun stepped down from the role. However, as of press time, the Nigeria Police authorities had yet to issue an official statement confirming the development.
It was not immediately clear who would succeed him as the nation’s next IGP, even as there has been a speculation of replacement with one AIG Tunji Disu, who however, is not the most senior in hierarchy after Egbetokun.
President Bola Tinubu appointed Egbetokun as the 22nd Inspector-General of Police on June 19, 2023. His appointment was subsequently confirmed by the Nigeria Police Council on October 31, 2023.
The latter part of his tenure was overshadowed by controversy over his continued stay in office beyond the statutory retirement age.
Under Section 18(8) of the Police Act 2020, Egbetokun, born September 4, 1964, was due for retirement in September 2024 upon attaining the age of 60.
However, his tenure extended beyond the mandatory retirement age of 60 years or 35 years of service, sparking sustained criticism from civil society organisations and other stakeholders. Critics argued that the development contravened established police service regulations and undermined institutional discipline.
The police authorities, however, maintained that the situation did not constitute a tenure extension but rather affirmed that he would complete the four-year term stipulated in his original letter of appointment.
In July 2024, the National Assembly passed the Police Act (Amendment) Bill to allow any appointed Inspector-General of Police to remain in office until the expiration of the tenure specified in the letter of appointment. The amendment followed a request by President Tinubu to both the House of Representatives and the Senate seeking a review of the IGP’s tenure provisions. Lawmakers in both chambers subsequently passed the bill at separate sittings.
EDITOR
Sam Udekwe is a journalist working in the News and Current Affairs department, Enugu State Broadcasting Service (ESBS) Enugu. He is well trained in all genres of journalistic venture.
Mr Sam read Mass Communication, graduating all with Distinction in National Diploma, Higher National Diploma and Postgraduate Diploma at IMT, Enugu and Madonna University, Okija, Anambra state, as well as M.Sc Mass Communication with Second Class(Upper Division) at National Open University of Nigeria.
He is the immediate past NUJ Chairman, Enugu state.
samowailo@gmail.com
