IGP Egbetokun’s Tenure Sparks Debate: AGF Fagbemi Declares His Stay Legal Amid Retirement Age Controversy
The controversy surrounding the tenure of Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun has intensified, with Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, stepping in to clarify that his continued stay in office is legal. Despite reaching the mandatory retirement age of 60, Egbetokun remains in office, backed by an amendment to the Police Act.
Why Egbetokun Is Still in Office
Critics argue that Egbetokun, who turned 60 in September 2024, should have exited the force. However, AGF Fagbemi, in a statement released Thursday, explained that an amendment to the Police Act guarantees a four-year tenure for any appointed IGP, regardless of retirement age.
“The appointment of Egbetokun, which took effect from October 31, 2023, would have ended on September 4, 2024, upon his attainment of 60 years. However, before he reached this milestone, the Police Act was amended to allow the occupant of the office to complete the original four-year term granted under Section 7(6) of the Act,” Fagbemi stated.
This means Egbetokun will remain in office until October 31, 2027, a decision that has drawn mixed reactions across political and legal circles.
Controversy Over the Police Act Amendment
the Police Act was amended to allow the occupant of the office to complete the original four-year term granted under Section 7(6) of the Act,” Fagbemi stated.
The amendment, passed with unprecedented speed on July 23, 2023, introduced Section 18(8A), which grants the IGP immunity from the standard civil service retirement rules. Previously, under Section 18(8), police officers had to retire after 35 years of service or upon reaching 60 years, whichever came first. The new clause overrides this for IGPs, ensuring they complete a full term once appointed.
Many Nigerians, however, remain skeptical. Critics, including the Human Rights Monitoring Agenda (HURMA), argue that the amendment was fast-tracked to enable Egbetokun’s continued stay, calling it an extension of the government’s tendency towards “sit-tightism.” The National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies also expressed concerns, suggesting the move undermines the principle of structured career progression within the police force.
Legal Battles and Public Outcry
Prominent activist Omoyele Sowore has been vocal in labeling Egbetokun an “illegal IGP.” His criticism led to a cybercrime lawsuit filed by the police, with Sowore pleading not guilty to 17 charges in an Abuja Federal High Court on Wednesday. Meanwhile, Abuja-based lawyer Maxwell Okpara has taken the federal government to court over Egbetokun’s continued tenure, arguing that the IGP must retire based on civil service rules.
The lawsuit, marked FHC/ABJ/CS/342/2024, remains undecided, adding more tension to the already heated debate.
Police Force Responds: “Egbetokun’s Appointment is Legal”
The Nigerian Police Force has dismissed claims that Egbetokun’s stay is illegal. Force spokesperson Muyiwa Adejobi issued a statement reaffirming that the IGP’s appointment is grounded in law.
“The Nigeria Police Force refutes, in clear and unequivocal terms, the baseless and misleading claims by Mr. Sowore. The IGP’s tenure was confirmed by the Police Council, and he has received the requisite confirmation letter from the Presidency,” Adejobi stated.
According to the police, the amendment ensures stability in leadership, allowing the IGP to execute long-term reforms without the fear of abrupt termination. “This change is expected to enhance policing efficiency and accountability in Nigeria,” Adejobi added.
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The Big Picture
While the AGF and the police maintain that Egbetokun’s tenure is legal, opposition voices argue that the amendment was rushed and politically motivated. With court cases ongoing and public opinion split, this debate is far from over.
For now, one thing remains clear: IGP Kayode Egbetokun is staying put—at least until 2027.
