The Nigerian Presidency has addressed concerns over the tenure of Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun, affirming that his continued stay in office is legally justified.
In a statement issued on Thursday, Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, dismissed claims that Egbetokun should have retired upon turning 60.
He clarified that recent amendments to the Police Act allow an IGP to complete a full four-year term, regardless of reaching the conventional retirement age.
The controversy gained attention after activist Omoyele Sowore was charged with cybercrimes for labelling Egbetokun an “illegal IGP” on social media.
Sowore, who was arraigned on Wednesday, pleaded not guilty to 17 charges but was granted bail the following day.
Addressing the matter, Fagbemi explained that Egbetokun’s appointment, which began on October 31, 2023, would have originally ended on September 4, 2024, upon his 60th birthday.
However, legislative amendments now permit him to serve his full four-year tenure as stipulated under Section 7(6) of the Police Act.
The amendment, introduced as an executive bill, grants IGPs special civil service privileges to ensure continuity in leadership.
The Presidency, which initiated the reform, stated that it was designed to provide stability in police leadership, enhance accountability, modernize law enforcement strategies, and improve relations between the police and the public.
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