Tinubu finally accepts Egbetokun’s resignation, appoints Disu as acting IGP

PRESIDENT Bola Ahmed Tinubu has officially accepted the resignation of the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Mr. Kayode Egbetokun, following a letter citing pressing family considerations.

Rumours swirled around the country on Tuesday regarding the replacement of Mr Egbetokun, with the presidency keeping silent. But rumours have finally been confirmed true, with Mr Egbetokun now an ex-IGP.

Egbetokun, who was appointed in June 2023 for a four-year term slated to end in June 2027, was commended by the president for his decades of dedicated service, professionalism, and commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s internal security architecture.

In a statement signed by Mr Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Tinubu announced the appointment of Assistant Inspector-General of Police (AIG) Tunji Disu as acting inspector-general of police, effective immediately. The president expressed confidence that AIG Disu’s operational experience and leadership skills would provide steady guidance to the Nigeria Police Force during this critical period.

READ ALSO: Police Intimidation: Tinubu sacks Solomon Arase after ICIR petition, Economy Post story

Under the Police Act 2020, President Tinubu will soon convene the Nigeria Police Council to formally consider Disu’s appointment as substantive IGP, after which the nomination will be sent to the Senate for confirmation.

The administration reiterated its commitment to enhancing national security, strengthening institutional capacity, and ensuring that the Nigeria Police Force remains professional, accountable, and fully equipped to fulfill its constitutional duties.

Egbetokun’s Background

Mr Egbetokun became the 22nd Inspector-General of Police on June 19, 2023 after his appointment by President Tinubu. The Nigeria Police Council later ratified his substantive appointment on October 31, 2023.

He was 58 at the time of his appointment and was originally expected to retire on September 4, 2024 upon attaining the statutory retirement age of 60.

However, the National Assembly amended the police legislation, enabling him to complete a four-year tenure as IGP unless removed by the president.

Following the amendment, Mr Egbetokun was projected to remain in office until October 31, 2027.

READ ALSO: Tafa Balogun, ex-IGP, is dead but his eight Dubai properties are still alive

Amid public criticism over the tenure extension, the presidency maintained that his continued stay in office was lawful under the revised Police Act 2024, which grants an appointed IGP a fixed four-year term irrespective of age or length of service.

His time in office was overshadowed by a number of controversies, particularly allegations relating to human rights violations. He was criticised for clamping down on protesters, including civil society groups demonstrating against Nigerian government’s oppression. Last Tuesday, the Nigeria police under his watch fired tear gas at peaceful protesters demanding full electoral reforms at the National Assembly, acting with the force and severity reminiscent of a military dictatorship.