Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) across Nigeria have expressed concern over the ongoing controversy surrounding the potential extension of the tenure of Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun. The CSOs are urging President Bola Tinubu to clarify the situation and ensure transparency in the decision-making process, which could have significant implications for the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) and public trust in the country’s law enforcement system.
The controversy stems from a letter, purportedly signed by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), that suggests an extension of IGP Egbetokun’s tenure. The letter, however, has raised questions about its legitimacy and the legal grounds for the extension, especially given that the IGP has reportedly reached the mandatory retirement age under the Police Act of 2020.
In their statement, the CSOs highlighted concerns that any move to extend the IGP’s tenure without presidential assent or proper legal backing could be perceived as an unlawful action. They warned that such a move could create discontent within the NPF, particularly among officers who may feel their career progression is being stifled, leading to potential indiscipline and a decline in police morale.
The CSOs also noted that tenure extensions for senior officers could undermine efforts to reform the police force, which has been plagued by various structural issues. They stressed the importance of adhering to public service rules and appointing capable leadership within the force to promote stability and accountability.
“We believe IGP Egbetokun should be replaced in line with the provisions of the Police Act to ensure that due process is followed and that capable leadership is promoted within the force,” the statement read. The CSOs further emphasized that President Tinubu’s handling of the issue would have far-reaching consequences for governance and public trust in Nigeria’s security institutions.
The coalition of CSOs calling for transparency includes prominent organisations such as the Rule of Law and Accountability Advocacy Centre (RULAAC), Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP), Amnesty International Nigeria, and the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC), among others.
They collectively urged the government to respect the law, ensure clarity in its decision-making, and avoid actions that could undermine the integrity of the police force.
The outcome of this controversy is likely to shape future reforms within Nigeria’s law enforcement agencies, and the CSOs are calling on President Tinubu to act decisively to protect the credibility of the NPF and uphold the principles of good governance.