By Yemi Akinsuyi
Nigeria’s Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has resigned from office on Tuesday.
Egbetokun is set to be replaced by Tunji Disu, an Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG), who is expected to take over the reins immediately.
Confirming the new development, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, disclosed that the IGP resigned in a letter Tuesday, citing family issues which require his undivided attention.
Onanuga stated: “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, has accepted the resignation of the Inspector-General of Police, Mr Kayode Egbetokun, following the submission of his letter citing pressing family considerations.
“President Tinubu received Mr Egbetokun’s resignation earlier today and expressed his profound appreciation for Egbetokun’s decades of distinguished service to the Nigeria Police Force and the nation. The President acknowledged his dedication, professionalism, and steadfast commitment to strengthening internal security architecture during his tenure.
“Appointed in June 2023, Egbetokun was serving a four-year term scheduled to conclude in June 2027, in line with the amended provisions of the Police Act.
“In view of the current security challenges confronting the nation, and acting in accordance with extant laws and legal guidance, President Tinubu has approved the appointment of Assistant Inspector-General of Police Tunji Disu to serve as Acting Inspector-General of Police with immediate effect.
“The President is confident that AIG Disu’s experience, operational depth, and demonstrated leadership capacity will provide steady and focused direction for the Nigeria Police Force during this critical period.
“In compliance with the provisions of the Police Act 2020, President Tinubu will convene a meeting of the Nigeria Police Council shortly to formally consider the appointment of AIG Disu as substantive Inspector-General of Police, after which his name will be transmitted to the Senate for confirmation.
“The President reiterates his administration’s unwavering commitment to enhancing national security, strengthening institutional capacity, and ensuring that the Nigeria Police Force remains professional, accountable, and fully equipped to discharge its constitutional responsibilities.”
Egbetokun was appointed as the 22nd IGP by President Tinubu on June 19, 2023, and his appointment was confirmed by the Nigeria Police Council on October 31, 2023. At 58, he was expected to retire on September 4, 2024, but the National Assembly amended the police law, allowing him to serve a full four-year term.
The amended Police Act 2024 cited by the presidency allowed Egbetokun to remain in office legally, despite complaints from Nigerians. He was set to complete his term in 2027, but resigned on Tuesday due to family and personal issues.
Egbetokun’s departure raises questions about the future of Nigeria’s police force and the government’s plans for reform.
The news has sent shockwaves throughout the country, with many Nigerians calling for a more transparent and accountable police leadership.
The appointment of Olatunji Disu as the new IGP is expected to bring fresh perspectives to the role, but only time will tell if he’ll be able to address the pressing issues plaguing the force.
Olatunji Disu, as the new Inspector General of Police, Nigerians are holding their breath, eager to see what’s next for their police force.
