AS the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Mr. Kayode Egbetokun, nears the mandatory retirement age of 60 years on September 4, the race to succeed him has intensified in ernest, baring last minute signing of the Bill passed by the National Assembly concerning his tenure is signed into law y President Bola Tinubu.
The Executive Bill passed by the National Assembly on July 31, allows the President to extend the tenure of an IGP beyond 35 years of service or 60 years of age, enabling Egbetokun to complete a four-year term.
The future of the IGP, who was appointed on June 19, last year, depends on the President’s decision regarding the amendment, which adds Section 18(8A) to the Nigeria Police Act 2020, stating that any person appointed as IGP shall remain in office until the end of the term stipulated in their appointment letter, as per Section 7(6) of the Act.
Considering his relationship with Tinubu, who her served as ADC when he was governor of Lagos State, and the President’s ethnic disposition in appointments so far, it is almost certain that he will assent to the Bill before September 4 to enable Egbetokun continue in office, despite opposition that the amendment is not in the best interest of the Force and Nigeria.
Perhaps this is why many senior officers are not engaging in open lobbying, bearing in mind the consequence of such action if he is finally retained, as is expected.
Some officers are worried that extending Egbetokun’s tenure would impact their career progression and distort the system.
