The recent press release by the Nigeria Police Force, refuting Mr. Omoyele Sowore’s claims about the illegality of IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun’s tenure, has raised more questions than answers. As the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Egbetokun’s appointment and tenure is now subjected to intense scrutiny and currently, in massive controversy. This response aims to provide a critical analysis of the issues surrounding IGP Egbetokun’s tenure, separating facts from fiction.
Age and Retirement Age: A Critical Factor,
At 61 years old, IGP Egbetokun has surpassed the mandatory retirement age of 60 years. This is a critical factor that cannot be ignored. The Nigeria Police Force’s attempt to justify his continued stay in office despite this clear contravention is astonishing. The Police Act, 2020 (as amended), does not provide for the extension of tenure beyond the stipulated four years, and IGP Egbetokun’s age is a clear indication that he has exceeded the retirement age.
Years of Service: A Maximum of 35 Years
IGP Egbetokun has completed 35 years of service, which is the maximum allowed under civil service rules. The Police Force’s attempt to justify his continued stay in office despite this clear contravention is questionable. The amendment to the Police Act, which was passed in July 2024, aimed to increase the retirement age of police officers from 60 to 65 years and their tenure of service from 35 to 40 years. However, this amendment cannot be applied retroactively to justify IGP Egbetokun’s extended tenure.
The Police Act, 2020 (as amended): A Misinterpretation
The Police Force cites the Police Act, 2020 (as amended), as the basis for IGP Egbetokun’s appointment. However, a closer examination of the Act reveals that it does not provide for the extension of tenure beyond the stipulated four years. The amendment to the Police Act, which was passed in July 2024, aimed to increase the retirement age of police officers, but this amendment cannot be applied retroactively to justify IGP Egbetokun’s extended tenure.
The Role of the Police Council and the Presidency;
The Police Force asserts that IGP Egbetokun’s appointment was duly ratified by the Police Council and confirmed by the Presidency. However, the fact that the Senate passed a controversial amendment bill to extend IGP Egbetokun’s tenure beyond September 2024 raises concerns about the legitimacy of the process. The public deserves transparency and accountability in the administration of justice, and the Police Force must not be seen to be flouting the laws and regulations that govern its operations.
In a wrap, the Nigeria Police Force’s press release has failed to address the fundamental issues surrounding IGP Egbetokun’s tenure. The public deserves transparency and accountability in the administration of justice, and the Police Force must not be seen to be flouting the laws and regulations that govern its operations. IGP Egbetokun’s age, years of service, and the misinterpretation of the Police Act, 2020 (as amended), are clear indications that his tenure is illegal. The Police Force must respect the laws and regulations that govern its operations and ensure that justice is served.