President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has relieved Kayode Egbetokun of his duties as Inspector General of Police (IGP), marking a significant leadership transition within the Nigeria Police Force.
Multiple sources within the Presidency confirmed that the decision was communicated to Egbetokun during a meeting at the Presidential Villa in Abuja. A formal statement from the Presidency is expected to provide further details on the development.
Egbetokun, who was appointed IGP on June 19, 2023, oversaw key policing reforms and security operations during his tenure. His continued stay in office in 2024 generated public debate after he reached the mandatory retirement age of 60, leading to an amendment of the Police Act that extended his tenure — a move that attracted mixed reactions from legal and civil society stakeholders.
With his removal, attention has now shifted to his likely successor. Sources within the police hierarchy indicate that Tunji Disu has been contacted in connection with the position, although official confirmation is still awaited.
The transition comes at a critical time as Nigeria continues to address pressing security challenges across various regions. Observers note that the appointment of a new IGP will play a pivotal role in shaping the next phase of policing strategy, reforms, and national security coordination.
Efforts to reach the Force Public Relations Officer, Benjamin Hundeyin, and the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, for official comments were unsuccessful as of press time.
Further updates are expected as the Presidency releases an official statement clarifying the next line of action.
