Controversy Surrounds IGP Egbetokun’s Continued Stay in Office

Concerns Over Retirement Policies Shake Nigeria Police Force

Tensions are rising within the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) over the continued tenure of Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun, despite exceeding the statutory retirement age of 60 years. While several senior officers have been compulsorily retired for alleged age falsification and violations of service rules, Egbetokun’s retention has sparked internal unrest.

As of March 3, 2025, the IGP officially retired all his coursemates, replacing them with officers reportedly loyal to him. However, many within the force are questioning why Egbetokun has not stepped aside despite enforcing strict retirement policies on his colleagues.

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Allegations of High-Level Intervention in Egbetokun’s Retention

Sources within the police hierarchy claim that Egbetokun narrowly avoided being removed but was saved by the intervention of First Lady Remi Tinubu, with whom he allegedly has close ties.

A senior government official disclosed to SaharaReporters that the IGP was on the verge of losing his position before the First Lady stepped in to protect him.

“The IGP almost lost his job, but the First Lady intervened. Now, he is more confident than ever and is making strategic moves to secure his position,” a senior official revealed.

This revelation has fueled suspicions that Egbetokun’s continued stay is politically influenced, rather than based on official service regulations.

Egbetokun Targets AIG Owohunwa Amid Power Struggle

The leadership dispute within the NPF has intensified with reports that Assistant Inspector General (AIG) Idowu Owohunwa is the latest officer facing uncertainty under Egbetokun’s leadership.

Sources indicate that Owohunwa’s retirement letter has already been prepared and is expected to be issued next week after he was denied promotion to Deputy Inspector General (DIG).

The Police Service Commission (PSC) reportedly declined to promote Owohunwa, effectively sealing his fate. This development is seen as part of a larger power struggle within the police force, with Egbetokun allegedly working to remove perceived threats to his authority.

PSC Approves Six New DIGs Amid Mass Retirements

Earlier this week, the PSC approved the appointment of six new Deputy Inspectors General of Police (DIGs) to replace those who were forced into retirement by police authorities. This wave of retirements and appointments reflects ongoing tensions within the NPF regarding leadership succession.

The controversy surrounding Egbetokun’s continued tenure, the forced retirements of senior officers, and alleged political interference have further fueled concerns over transparency in the Nigeria Police Force’s leadership structure.

As these developments unfold, all eyes remain on President Bola Tinubu’s administration and whether it will uphold merit-based leadership or allow political influence to dictate police affairs.