As Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun nears his scheduled retirement on September 4, the race to succeed him has intensified. Appointed on June 19, 2023, Egbetokun is due to retire when he reaches the mandatory retirement age of 60.
The situation is further complicated by a recent amendment to the Police Act, passed by the National Assembly in July 2024. This amendment permits the President to extend the IGP’s tenure beyond the standard retirement age or service period, allowing the IGP to complete a full four-year term. However, as this bill awaits the President's signature, uncertainty surrounds Egbetokun's future.
Within the police force, the tension is palpable as officers from the ranks of Commissioners of Police (CPs), Assistant Inspectors-General (AIGs), and Deputy Inspectors-General (DIGs) intensify lobbying efforts for the top position. Sources indicate that if the President does not sign the amendment, Egbetokun will have to retire as scheduled. On the other hand, if the amendment is enacted, the President could potentially extend Egbetokun’s tenure.
The debate over whether the amendment should apply retroactively to Egbetokun adds another layer of complexity. High-ranking officers express concerns that tenure extensions close to retirement could disrupt the system, increase lobbying, and lead to desperation for positions, often disregarding merit.
The situation mirrors previous instances of uncertainty surrounding IGP tenures, notably during the tenure of former IGP Usman Baba, whose retirement was delayed by the then-Federal Government amidst concerns over upcoming elections.
As the police force and the nation await the President's decision, Egbetokun's future hangs in the balance, with implications for the career progression of many high-ranking officers within the force.
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