A storm of controversy is brewing over the continued stay of Kayode Egbetokun as Inspector General of Police (IGP), with the Committee for the Defence of Human Rights (CDHR) accusing the federal government of disregarding civil service rules and democratic principles.
The group insists that Egbetokun, who has surpassed the mandatory retirement age of 60 years, should immediately step down to uphold the rule of law.
In a strongly worded statement on Sunday, CDHR’s National President, Debo Adeniran, decried the government’s decision to retain Egbetokun, calling it a “brazen disregard for due process” and a threat to institutional integrity.
According to Adeniran, the Police Act and the Civil Service Rules make it clear that an IGP must be a serving police officer—something he argues Egbetokun no longer qualifies for.
“The Civil Service Rule has been incorporated into the Police Act, which states that every police officer must retire at 60 years of age or after 35 years of service, whichever comes first. You cannot be an IGP if you are not a serving officer,” Adeniran stressed.
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While acknowledging Egbetokun’s experience, Adeniran warned that extending his tenure beyond legal limits could set a dangerous precedent, allowing political interference, impunity, and the stalling of younger officers’ careers.
“If the older ones don’t leave, the younger ones cannot ascend the ladder. He should be kind enough to relinquish the post for someone younger,” he added.
The federal government, however, remains firm in its stance. In January, Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, clarified that Egbetokun’s tenure is legally sound under the recently amended Police Act.
According to Fagbemi, the amendment, enacted before Egbetokun’s scheduled retirement in September 2024, grants an IGP a full four-year term, regardless of age.
“The Police Act now allows the IGP to complete the four-year term under Section 7(6), even if he has attained 60,” Fagbemi explained.
Despite the government’s position, the CDHR is rallying civil society groups and lawmakers to challenge what it calls a violation of public service laws.
Adeniran urged President Bola Tinubu to uphold the spirit of democracy by immediately appointing a new IGP in line with constitutional provisions.
“We demand immediate action to restore public confidence in the rule of law. Nigeria cannot afford to sacrifice legality on the altar of personal or political interests,” he declared.