IGP Egbetokun Tenure Extension: A Recipe For Scandal

IGP Egbetokun Tenure Extension: A Recipe For Scandal

Human rights attorney Hamza Nuhu Dantani has voiced serious concerns regarding the National Assembly’s recent approval of the Police Act, which permits the tenure extension of Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun…READ MORE…

Dantani argues that this decision, influenced by President Bola Tinubu’s request for Egbetokun to remain in his position until the end of 2027, may have damaging repercussions for national security.

In a petition issued on Friday, Dantani criticized the National Assembly for unsettling the leadership framework within the police force, undermining constitutional integrity, and diminishing public confidence in governance. He labeled the president’s decision to extend Egbetokun’s tenure as a blatant form of nepotism that could negatively affect the morale and career advancement of police personnel.

Dantani highlighted specific sections of the Police Act, noting that the extension of Egbetokun’s service could threaten national unity. He referred to sections 7 and 18(8) of the Police Act 2020, which stipulate the retirement age for the IGP. Given that Egbetokun was born on September 4, 1964, he is set to reach the mandatory retirement age of 60 in September 2024, according to Dantani.

“The controversial amendment of the Police Act, favoring a specific individual, undermines the sanctity of the rule of law, especially the principle of equality before the law,” Dantani asserted. He stressed that no officer should remain in service after reaching the retirement age or completing 35 years of pensionable service.

Dantani expressed worry that the actions of the National Assembly have undermined the authority of the presidency, despite the established principle of separation of powers. He pointed out that on July 23, 2024, the National Assembly, led by Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, rapidly passed the amendment to the Police Act.

Earlier that same day, the House of Representatives authorized the amendment, allowing the IGP to continue in his role until the end of his appointed term. The Senate followed suit, responding to a presidential request to enable Egbetokun to complete his four-year term, even as he approaches the compulsory retirement age.

The proposed amendment seeks to modify Section 18 of the Police Act 2020, permitting the IGP to serve beyond the current legal stipulations. Dantani cautioned that this decision effectively hinders the progression of other senior officers waiting for leadership roles and stagnates junior officers.

He called upon the President to prioritize merit and competence over personal connections in police appointments and promotions, arguing that institutions flourish when individuals are chosen based on their qualifications and skills rather than their affiliations.

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