Abuja — Claims that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has removed Kayode Egbetokun as Inspector-General of Police (IGP) triggered widespread buzz on Monday, with reports alleging jubilation at the Nigeria Police Force Headquarters in Abuja.
The reports, which gained traction across social media and some online platforms, alleged that the President had acted decisively to end what critics describe as a scandal-ridden tenure. However, as of the time of filing this report, there is no official confirmation from the Presidency, the Police Service Commission, or the Force Headquarters to substantiate the claims.
Adding fuel to the controversy, activist and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore publicly alleged that Egbetokun had been relieved of his duties and replaced by a senior officer. Despite the bold assertion, no formal statement, gazette notice, or communiqué has been issued to validate the purported leadership change.
Notably, both the Presidency and the Police Force have maintained a conspicuous silence, a development that has left analysts and observers divided. While some interpret the quiet as a precursor to an official announcement, others caution that Nigeria’s security architecture requires formal procedures and public notification before such a consequential change can be deemed legitimate.
Under Nigeria’s constitutional framework, the appointment or removal of an IGP involves presidential action in consultation with the Nigeria Police Council, typically followed by an official announcement. None of these steps has been publicly confirmed.
The claims come against the backdrop of sustained criticism of Egbetokun’s leadership, particularly legal disputes and public agitation over the legitimacy of his continued stay in office after reaching the statutory retirement age. Civil society groups, unions, and activists have repeatedly called for clarity, transparency, and adherence to due process within the Police Force.
These pressures have kept the office of the IGP under intense public scrutiny, making any rumour of removal both explosive and politically significant.
The Inspector-General of Police sits at the heart of Nigeria’s internal security system. Any abrupt or disputed change in leadership has implications for command structure, morale within the ranks, and national stability. This is why unverified claims — especially those suggesting celebrations within the Force — demand careful handling and factual confirmation.
For now, the reported removal of IGP Kayode Egbetokun remains unverified. Until an official statement is issued by the Presidency or the appropriate statutory bodies, the claims should be treated with caution.
All eyes remain on Aso Rock and the Police Force Headquarters as Nigerians await clarity on a development that, if confirmed, would mark a major turning point in the country’s security leadership.
PIONEER NEWS 