The Nigerian Presidency has shed light on the ongoing controversy surrounding the tenure of Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun. This clarification follows the recent legal challenge against Egbetokun’s continued stay in office despite reaching the age of 60, which traditionally marks the retirement age for civil servants in Nigeria.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, explained that Egbetokun’s appointment remains legal, refuting claims made by critics, including human rights activist Omoyele Sowore. Sowore, who has been vocal about the issue, referred to Egbetokun as an “illegal IGP” on social media. As a result, Sowore was charged with cybercrimes and arraigned on Wednesday. He pleaded not guilty to the charges but was granted bail on Thursday.
Fagbemi detailed that Egbetokun’s appointment as IGP, which began on October 31, 2023, would have ended in September 2024, when he would have turned 60. According to the statement, “The appointment of Egbetokun which took effect from the 31st day of October 2023 would have come to an end on his attainment of 60 years of age on 4th day of September 2024.” However, Fagbemi explained that before Egbetokun reached this age, the Nigerian Police Act was amended to allow the officeholder to complete the original four-year tenure granted under Section 7(6) of the Act, regardless of age.
This amendment was introduced as part of an executive bill, which added a new provision to the Police Act. The change allows IGPs to remain in office and complete their term, even if they reach the age of retirement. The bill was designed to offer IGPs special civil service rights and ensure the stability of the police force by guaranteeing a full four-year tenure.
According to Fagbemi, the presidency’s intention in sponsoring this amendment was to modernize police operations, enhance accountability, and strengthen the relationship between the police force and the public. The new law aims to support long-term planning within the police and ensure leadership continuity, critical for reforming and evolving Nigeria’s policing methods.
This clarification has provided some relief to the presidency and IGP Egbetokun, who had been facing increasing pressure from various quarters. It also highlights the ongoing efforts of the Nigerian government to improve the country’s security infrastructure and reinforce the rule of law, while balancing the need for effective leadership within the police force.
The decision to amend the Police Act reflects the government’s commitment to ensuring stability and addressing concerns around leadership tenure within critical institutions, especially given the complex challenges facing the Nigerian police force in the fight against insecurity.