The Nigeria Police Force has addressed recent reports suggesting that President Bola Tinubu has extended the tenure of Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun by three years.
According to a source cited by Daily Trust, the tenure extension was officially communicated to Egbetokun by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume, on Monday. Egbetokun, who was appointed IGP in June 2023, is set to retire on Wednesday, September 4, 2024, upon turning 60.
Force Public Relations Officer Olumuyiwa Adejobi commented on the situation during an interview with TVC, stating that he could not confirm the extension. He emphasized that such decisions are the prerogative of the President and that any official announcement should come from the federal government. Adejobi pointed out that neither the IGP nor the police spokesperson has the authority to announce changes in tenure.
In July, the Nigerian Senate passed a bill amending the Police Act 2020. The new clause under Section 8 stipulates that public servants must retire after 35 years of service or upon reaching 60 years of age, whichever comes first. The amendment also introduces a provision allowing officers to serve until they reach 65 years of age or complete 40 years of service.
For any official confirmation or further details, inquiries should be directed to the federal government.
