President Tinubu Confirms IGP Egbetokun’s Tenure Until 2027

.

In a significant development, President Bola Tinubu has officially confirmed the tenure of Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, ensuring he will remain in office until 2027. This clarification comes amidst speculation regarding an extension of his tenure. The focus of this clarification lies in the IGP tenure confirmation, which solidifies Egbetokun’s four-year term as initially outlined in his appointment letter.

A senior police source, speaking on the matter, emphasized that the recent communication was not an extension but a reaffirmation of the existing tenure. “The tenure of the IGP was not extended but rather a clarification on his letter of appointment that stipulated four years in office,” the source explained, underscoring the importance of the IGP tenure confirmation.

The National Assembly had previously taken steps to address the tenure of the IGP by passing the Police Act Amendment Bill. This legislative move, which was swiftly approved by both the House of Representatives and the Senate, enables an IGP to serve the full duration stipulated in their appointment letter, regardless of age or years of service.

President Tinubu’s endorsement of the Bill and subsequent confirmation of Egbetokun’s tenure highlights a shift towards greater stability within the Nigerian Police Force’s leadership. The IGP tenure confirmation ensures that Egbetokun, who was appointed in June 2023, will serve his complete four-year term, thereby maintaining continuity at the helm of the police force.

Egbetokun’s appointment, along with four other service chiefs, was a strategic decision made by President Tinubu to bolster the country’s security apparatus. Born on September 4, 1964, Egbetokun was initially expected to retire in September 2024 upon reaching the mandatory retirement age of 60. However, with the IGP tenure confirmation, he will now continue to lead the police force until 2027.

This clarification puts to rest any doubts about the duration of his service, particularly in light of previous controversies surrounding the tenure of his predecessor, Usman Baba. Baba’s situation was notably similar, as he remained in office beyond the age and service limits until Egbetokun’s appointment.

The IGP tenure confirmation is a critical step in ensuring leadership continuity within the Nigerian Police Force, reflecting a commitment to upholding the terms of service as outlined by law. With two years and nine months remaining in his tenure, Egbetokun’s continued leadership promises to bring further stability and progress to the force as it navigates the challenges ahead.