“Fagbemi Clears the Air: IGP Egbetokun’s Continued Tenure is Fully Legal”
The Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, has clarified that the continued stay of Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun in office is entirely lawful and in line with the law.
In a statement he personally signed and released on Thursday night, the AGF addressed concerns over the IGP’s tenure. Fagbemi explained that Egbetokun’s initial appointment, effective from October 31, 2023, was due to expire when he turned 60 on September 4, 2024. However, the Police Act was amended prior to his retirement age, allowing him to serve out a full four-year term, despite the age limitation.
“This amendment has effectively extended Egbetokun’s tenure until October 31, 2027, ensuring he completes the four-year term initially granted to him under Section 7(6) of the Police Act,” Fagbemi stated.
For clarity, he further emphasized that Egbetokun’s position as IGP remains in full compliance with the updated Police Act, which allows the officeholder to serve a four-year term starting from the date of appointment. In Egbetokun’s case, that date is October 31, 2023.
Fagbemi added that the advisory was issued to provide guidance to the public in response to recent legal challenges.
The clarification comes after lawyer Maxwell Opara, based in Abuja, filed a case at the Federal High Court, questioning the legality of Egbetokun’s continued tenure. In addition, the police recently arraigned Omoyele Sowore, the former presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC), for calling Egbetokun an “illegal” IGP.
The AGF’s statement aims to resolve any confusion surrounding Egbetokun’s legal standing and ensure that the public understands the legal framework supporting his extended term.
