The Nigerian Presidency has clarified the controversy surrounding the tenure of Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun.
In a statement on Thursday, Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, explained that Egbetokun’s continued stay in office is legal, contrary to claims that he should have retired after reaching the age of 60.
It can be recalled that Human Rights Activist Omoyele Sowore, was this week charged with cybercrimes for referring to Egbetokun as an “illegal IGP” on social media. Sowore was arraigned on Wednesday and pleaded not guilty to 17 cybercrime counts. He was, however, granted bail on Thursday.
Reacting to the development, Fagbemi said Egbetokun’s appointment, which took effect on October 31, 2023, would have ended on September 4, 2024, when he attained 60 years.
“The appointment of Egbetokun which took effect from 31st day of October 2023 would have come to an end on his attainment of 60 years of age on 4th day of September 2024,” Mr Fagbemi wrote in a statement on Thursday.
He added, “However, before his retirement age, the Police Act was amended to allow the occupant of the office to remain and complete the original four-year term granted under Section 7 (6) of the Act, notwithstanding the fact that he has attained the age of 60 years.”
The amendment, which was proposed as an executive bill, created a new section in the Police Act, giving IGPs special civil service rights and enforcing the four-year tenure stipulated in the Act.
The presidency, which sponsored the bill, said it aimed to guarantee the tenure of the IGP and revolutionize police operations by enhancing accountability, modernizing policing methods, and fostering a more harmonious relationship between the police and the community.
