CDHR faults IGP Kayode Egbetokun’s continued stay in office, calls for immediate replacement

The Committee for the Defence of Human Rights (CDHR) has strongly opposed the continued stay in office of the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, describing it as a clear violation of civil service rules, due process, and democratic principles.

The organization insists that Egbetokun should vacate his position upon reaching the statutory retirement age.

Egbetokun, whose appointment took effect on October 31, 2023, was expected to retire on September 4, 2024, upon attaining 60 years of age.

However, a recent amendment to the Police Act allows the occupant of the office to complete the original four-year tenure prescribed under Section 7(6) of the Act, regardless of the retirement age. This amendment has been used to justify the extension of Egbetokun’s tenure until October 31, 2027.

In a statement, the CDHR argued that this move contradicts the Civil Service Rules, which have been incorporated into the Police Act.

According to these rules, all police officers must retire upon reaching 60 years of age or after serving for 35 years, whichever comes first. The organization maintained that the IGP, as a civil servant, should be bound by these regulations.

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“The continued stay of the Inspector General of Police in office undermines public trust in the Nigeria Police Force and erodes the credibility of our democratic institutions,” CDHR stated.

The group also emphasized that any attempt to manipulate or extend the tenure of the IGP outside the legal framework threatens justice, fairness, and accountability. It warned that such actions could set a dangerous precedent, leading to impunity, political interference, and the erosion of institutional integrity.

While acknowledging Egbetokun’s experience, the CDHR asserted that retaining older officers at the expense of younger ones stifles career progression and professional development within the force.

It urged him to step down in accordance with public service regulations to allow younger officers the opportunity to rise through the ranks.

Furthermore, the CDHR called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and other relevant authorities to uphold the rule of law by appointing a new IGP in compliance with constitutional provisions.

 It also urged the National Assembly, civil society organizations, and all well-meaning Nigerians to resist any attempt to subvert democratic processes and legal principles.

“The Nigeria Police Force is a critical institution responsible for safeguarding lives, properties, and the nation’s overall security. Its leadership must be based on competence, integrity, and strict adherence to the law, rather than political maneuvering,” the statement read.

The organization demanded immediate action to restore public confidence in the rule of law and prevent personal or political interests from overriding legal procedures.

It warned that Nigeria cannot afford to compromise legality in the management of its security institutions, emphasizing that adherence to due process remains fundamental to the country’s democratic stability.