The extension of Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun’s tenure has received strong backing from the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) President and former Inspector-General of Police, Otunba Sunday Ehindero. They argue that Egbetokun’s leadership has been effective, citing his academic qualifications and performance in office as justification for the extension. This support comes amid debates over the legality and implications of extending the tenure of top security officials.
Recent amendments to the Nigeria Police Act, 2020, provide legal backing for the extension. The new law allows an IGP to serve a fixed four-year term, even if they have reached the mandatory retirement age of 60 or completed 35 years of service. This amendment aims to ensure continuity in police leadership, reducing disruptions caused by frequent changes in leadership. However, critics argue that such extensions could hinder career progression for senior officers waiting in line for promotion.
The issue of tenure extensions for IGPs has historically been controversial. In the past, similar decisions have sparked debates over their impact on the professionalism and structure of the Nigeria Police Force. Some stakeholders believe that while experience and continuity are beneficial, extending an IGP’s term beyond the traditional retirement period could demoralize other senior officers and create leadership bottlenecks.
Despite the concerns, supporters of Egbetokun’s extension maintain that his leadership has positively impacted the security landscape. They emphasize that Nigeria’s security challenges require consistent leadership to implement long-term reforms. As discussions continue, the decision raises broader questions about balancing continuity in leadership with the need for fresh perspectives within the police force.
