“Legal and Political Showdown: IGP Egbetokun’s Extended Tenure Sparks National Debate”

The debate surrounding the controversial extension of Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun’s tenure continues to escalate, with renewed calls for his resignation or dismissal from both political figures and activists. This follows a series of public outbursts, including from human rights activist Omoyele Sowore, who repeatedly refers to Egbetokun as an “illegal IGP.”

Egbetokun, who was due to retire on September 4, 2024, upon turning 60, was granted a four-year tenure extension by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu after the National Assembly amended the Police Act. While the amendment has been defended by legal experts as lawful, the decision has not been without controversy.

Sowore, who was a presidential candidate for the African Action Congress (AAC) in the 2023 elections, has been outspoken in criticizing the extension, claiming that it lacked due process. “Nigeria is now endangered by the martial tendencies of its National Assembly,” Sowore stated, expressing his disapproval of how the bill was rushed through Parliament without public hearings.

According to the amended law, specifically Section 18(8A), the IGP’s tenure can now extend beyond the usual 60-year retirement age, a provision that some critics argue undermines career progression for other officers within the force. The quick passage of the bill has also sparked concern, especially given its accelerated approval in the Senate in late July 2024.

In the midst of the backlash, Sowore was detained by the police for his repeated use of the term “illegal IGP” to describe Egbetokun. Sowore rejected the bail conditions, which required him to provide a surety of Level 17 civil servant status, labeling the demands as an abuse of power. He maintained his stance on Egbetokun’s appointment, emphasizing that he would not apologize for his characterization of the IGP.

Meanwhile, Attorney-General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, has weighed in on the matter, asserting that Egbetokun’s continued stay in office is both legal and in line with the amended Police Act. Fagbemi explained that the new provision legally extends the IGP’s tenure until 2027, ensuring stability and continuity in the police force leadership.

The Police Force Headquarters also defended Egbetokun’s appointment, dismissing Sowore’s claims as unfounded and misleading. A statement from the Force spokesman, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, reiterated that Egbetokun’s appointment is firmly supported by the law and confirmed by the Police Council.

While the debate continues, the situation has sparked broader questions about the balance between legal procedures, executive power, and the future of law enforcement leadership in Nigeria.