The Police Service Commission (PSC) has firmly denied issuing any directive for the retirement of Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun, dismissing widespread speculation over his tenure. This comes amid growing controversy surrounding an amendment to the Nigeria Police Act, which seeks to extend the retirement age of police officers.
PSC Clears the Air on Egbetokun’s Status
On Friday, SaharaReporters had reported that the PSC had approved the immediate retirement of all senior police officers who had either reached 60 years of age or served for 35 years. The decision, made during the commission’s first extraordinary meeting, fueled speculation that IGP Egbetokun—who turned 60 last year—was also affected.
However, in a statement on Monday, the PSC’s Head of Media, Ikechukwu Ani, refuted the claims, stating categorically that the commission has no constitutional authority to appoint or remove an IGP.
> “The PSC has been inundated with calls, messages, and reports on the status of the IGP following the commission’s directive for the retirement of officers who have served 35 years or are above 60 years. The commission wishes to state that it does not have the constitutional powers to determine the appointment or exit of the Inspector-General of Police,” Ani stated.
He further explained that while the PSC oversees recruitment, promotions, and disciplinary actions within the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), the appointment and removal of the IGP remain the prerogative of the President, in consultation with the Police Council.
Despite the PSC’s clarification, controversy continues to swirl around the sudden amendment of the Nigeria Police Act, 2020, which effectively extends Egbetokun’s tenure beyond the statutory retirement age.
Multiple civil society groups, legal experts, and security analysts have raised alarms over what they describe as a politically motivated move that could undermine police integrity and transparency. The Rule of Law and Accountability Advocacy Centre (RULAAC) and the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS) have particularly warned that the amendment opens the door to abuse of power, favoritism, and erosion of due process.
In a statement signed by Okechukwu Nwanguma, RULAAC’s Executive Director, civil society groups urged President Bola Tinubu to adhere strictly to constitutional guidelines when appointing or extending the tenure of IGPs.
> “The amendment to the Police Act raises concerns about political manipulation, possible abuse of power, and the setting of a dangerous precedent where laws are bent to favor certain individuals. This must be resisted in the interest of democracy and professionalism in the police force,” Nwanguma stated.
Senate’s Role in the Controversy
On July 23, 2024, SaharaReporters revealed that the Nigerian Senate had passed the controversial Police Act (Amendment) Bill, 2024, effectively increasing the retirement age of police officers from 60 to 65 years and their tenure of service from 35 to 40 years.
The bill, originally introduced in the 8th National Assembly, had previously failed to gain traction. However, insiders claim that Egbetokun personally lobbied for its passage, allegedly allocating significant resources to influence lawmakers.
Despite its passage, the bill faced strong opposition from key stakeholders, including the Police Service Commission (PSC), the Ministry of Police Affairs, and the National Salaries and Wages Commission.
During a public hearing, senior police officers expressed outrage, labeling the move as self-serving and detrimental to the force’s structure. The Ministry of Police Affairs also warned that the amendment could cripple police operations, stagnate career progression, and create an unhealthy work environment within the force.
> “Extending the service years of police officers will lead to stagnation in promotions, discourage young officers, and weaken morale. It also sets a dangerous precedent that could be exploited by other security agencies like the military and paramilitary organizations,” the ministry cautioned.
Amid mounting criticisms, Force Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, defended the bill, clarifying that it was not a recent proposal initiated for Egbetokun’s benefit.
> “This bill was first introduced during the 8th Assembly to enhance the conditions of service for police officers, not for any personal gain. It is standard legislative practice to review and update laws in line with national realities,” Adejobi stated.
However, critics argue that the timing and hurried passage of the amendment—just as Egbetokun neared retirement—suggests a hidden agenda aimed at circumventing existing laws to prolong his stay in office.
The unfolding controversy surrounding Egbetokun’s tenure extension is a major test for President Tinubu’s administration, the National Assembly, and the integrity of Nigeria’s legal framework.
As calls grow louder for due process and adherence to constitutional provisions, the Nigerian public and security stakeholders are watching closely to see whether political interests will trump institutional integrity—or whether the rule of law will prevail.
One thing is clear: the debate over tenure extension in the police force is far from over.
PIONEER NEWS 