The Presidency has officially confirmed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has accepted the resignation of Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, citing “pressing family considerations” in his letter.

Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, stated on Tuesday that the President expressed appreciation for Egbetokun’s decades of service and his commitment to internal security. Appointed in June 2023, Egbetokun’s four-year tenure was scheduled to run until June 2027 under the amended Police Act.

The statement also confirmed the immediate appointment of Assistant Inspector-General of Police Tunji Disu as Acting IGP. Onanuga said: “President Tinubu is confident that AIG Disu’s experience, operational depth, and leadership capacity will provide steady and focused direction for the Nigeria Police Force during this critical period.”

Disu’s substantive appointment will be formally considered by the Nigeria Police Council, after which his name will be transmitted to the Senate for confirmation, in line with the Police Act 2020.

Egbetokun’s tenure as IGP was marked by controversies, including his extension beyond the statutory retirement age, allegations of nepotism, and questions over institutional integrity. Civil society groups had criticized his prolonged stay, arguing it undermined morale and public trust in the force.

Chronicles reporters had previously reported that Egbetokun’s office was embroiled in several scandals, including the rapid promotion of a close staff officer and the temporary deposit of N100 million from Anambra State’s security vote into the account of his son, Victor Egbetokun, which later sparked allegations of misuse of public funds.

Sources also confirmed that some officers celebrated his removal, reflecting widespread dissatisfaction within the force. The appointment of Tunji Disu, known for his tenure as Commander of the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) in Lagos, has been met with cautious optimism by observers who hope for urgent reforms, improved accountability, and a professionalized police service.

Chronicles Reporters will continue to monitor the handover and the developments around the new Acting IGP’s plans to restore discipline and transparency in the Nigeria Police Force.

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