The Federal Government of Nigeria has affirmed that the continued stay of Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun in office is legal, despite concerns about his age and tenure.
In a statement on Thursday, Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, clarified that Egbetokun’s appointment, which began on October 31, 2023, remains valid for four years under the amended Police Act 2024.
Fagbemi explained that although public service rules mandate retirement at 60 years or after 35 years of service, the 2024 amendment to the Police Act allows an IGP to complete a full four-year tenure, regardless of age.
“The appointment of Egbetokun, which took effect on October 31, 2023, would have ended upon his attainment of 60 years on September 4, 2024. However, before his retirement age, the Police Act was amended to allow the occupant of the office to complete the original four-year term under Section 7(6) of the Act,” Fagbemi stated.
This clarification follows controversy surrounding Egbetokun’s tenure, with some critics, including Omoyele Sowore, the 2023 presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC), questioning its legality. Sowore recently referred to Egbetokun as an “illegal IGP,” leading to his arraignment on 16 charges for allegedly publishing false information against the police chief.
Egbetokun was appointed by President Bola Tinubu, replacing Usman Baba as IGP. His extended stay until October 31, 2027, under the amended law, underscores the government’s stance on ensuring stability within the police leadership.
