IGP Egbetokun’s Tenure: Police Refute Sowore’s Misleading Claims

IGP Egbetokun’s Tenure: Police Refute Sowore’s Misleading Claims

The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has strongly refuted allegations made by Mr. Omoyele Sowore regarding the legality of the tenure of the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM. In a formal statement, the police described Sowore’s claims as misleading and entirely baseless, asserting that the IGP’s Egbetokun appointment is firmly grounded in law and has been duly ratified by the appropriate authorities.

According to the Police Act, 2020 (as amended), particularly PART III, Section 7(6), an individual appointed as the Inspector-General of Police is entitled to a four-year tenure. Furthermore, IGP Egbetokun’s appointment was officially ratified by the Police Council and received a confirmation letter from the Presidency, solidifying his term from October 31, 2023, to October 31, 2027. The recent amendment to the Police Act, specifically Section 8A, ensures that an IGP serves the full tenure stipulated in their appointment letter, thereby promoting stability and long-term planning within the force.

Addressing Misleading Reports and Public Perception

The NPF has expressed concern over the dissemination of false narratives that could undermine public trust in the leadership of the police force. The force described Sowore’s allegations as an attempt to create confusion and distrust regarding the legitimacy of IGP Egbetokun’s position, warning that such misinformation could have grave consequences for national security and law enforcement operations.

Sowore, in his publication, claimed that IGP Egbetokun had allegedly “hurriedly left a conference in Rwanda” due to pressure from senior police cadres regarding the expiration of his tenure. He further alleged that the IGP Egbetokun had exceeded the legal service period of 35 years and the age of 60, arguing that he should retire to allow for new leadership. However, the police have dismissed these claims, emphasizing that the amendments to the Police Act were specifically designed to prevent abrupt terminations and ensure leadership continuity for strategic reforms.

The Nigeria Police has reiterated that IGP Egbetokun’s tenure is legally and constitutionally valid, as stipulated in the Police Act, 2020. The amendments to the law were enacted to eliminate ambiguities regarding the tenure of an Inspector-General, thereby ensuring that appointments are based on fixed terms rather than age or years of service.

By confirming that an IGP shall serve a full four-year tenure, the amended law prioritizes institutional stability and prevents external interference that could disrupt the operations of the force. The NPF insists that IGP Egbetokun’s appointment remains in full compliance with the law, rendering any contrary claims misleading and unfounded.

Call for Responsible Journalism and Public Support

In response to Sowore’s allegations, the police have urged media practitioners and the general public to refrain from spreading misinformation that could jeopardize national security. The force called for responsible journalism, emphasizing the importance of verifying facts before making public allegations that could create unnecessary panic or distrust in government institutions.

The NPF reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring public safety and national stability, urging all stakeholders to focus on supporting the police in combating crime rather than engaging in narratives that could weaken public confidence in law enforcement. The statement concluded with a strong warning against the deliberate spread of falsehoods, reaffirming that IGP Egbetokun remains the legally recognized and duly confirmed Inspector-General of Police until the completion of his tenure in 2027.


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