Despite his recent exit from office, former Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, is reportedly still occupying the official residence of the IGP, amid alleged moves to secure a senatorial ticket in Ogun State.
Sources within the Nigeria Police Force told Chronicles Reporters that Egbetokun has not vacated the IGP’s official quarters and is said to be strategizing toward contesting the Ogun West Senatorial District seat.
Egbetokun hails from Erinja in Yewa South Local Government Area of Ogun State, which falls within Ogun West.
On February 24, reports emerged that President Bola Tinubu directed Egbetokun to step down from his position as Inspector-General of Police.
He was subsequently succeeded by Tunji Disu, who previously headed the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID) Annex, Alagbon, Lagos.
The development reportedly sparked mixed reactions within the police hierarchy, with some officers said to have welcomed the leadership change.
Egbetokun’s time in office was marked by persistent controversy, particularly regarding the extension of his tenure beyond the statutory retirement age of 60 years or 35 years of service. Critics, including civil society organisations, argued that the extension raised questions about adherence to established service regulations and institutional discipline.
Further allegations during his tenure involved rapid promotions within the force, notably concerning a senior officer who served in his office. Critics described the promotions as irregular and raised concerns about possible favoritism, though no court of law has convicted any individual in relation to the claims.
In addition, reports surfaced alleging that ₦100 million from Anambra State’s security vote was traced to an account linked to a family member of the former IGP. The allegation generated significant public debate; however, no publicly available court judgment has established criminal liability.
During his tenure, Egbetokun initiated legal proceedings against activist Omoyele Sowore following public remarks that described him as an “illegal IGP.” The dispute escalated into a legal battle, with the Federal High Court reportedly issuing interim orders restraining further publications on certain allegations involving the former police chief and members of his family.
Observers at the time expressed concerns about the broader implications for press freedom and the relationship between law enforcement authorities and the media.
With his reported senatorial ambition in Ogun West, political observers are closely watching whether Egbetokun will formally declare his intention to run and under which political platform.
As of press time, there has been no official public statement from the former IGP confirming his political plans or addressing reports regarding his continued stay at the official residence.
Chronicles Reporters will continue to monitor developments and provide verified updates as more information becomes available.