Nigeria’s Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, is reportedly contending with health challenges linked to a kidney condition, raising concerns about his capacity to fulfill the demanding responsibilities of his office.
According to a report by SaharaReporters, multiple sources disclosed that Egbetokun has been grappling with complications following a kidney transplant he underwent several years ago while serving as a Chief Superintendent of Police. The strain of his current role, combined with the fact that he operates with a single kidney, has allegedly contributed to his declining health. Due to his condition, Egbetokun is said to limit his time at the Force Headquarters, typically arriving around 1 p.m. and leaving early. He is reportedly more active during nighttime hours, working from a home-based setup that includes a makeshift clinic.
In March, SaharaReporters reported that Egbetokun was unable to undertake a planned trip to the United Kingdom for an international security conference, which was also intended to provide him with an opportunity for medical treatment abroad. The trip was reportedly canceled amid political sensitivity surrounding his continued tenure.
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In response to these reports, the South West Youth Alliance (SWYA), a group known for defending the Nigeria Police Force and IGP Egbetokun against various allegations, dismissed the claims as “mischievous.” Adenike Ajanlekoko, the Publicity Secretary of SWYA, stated that it is “pure blackmail” to suggest that Egbetokun has limited his time at the Force Headquarters. She asserted that the IGP arrives at the office as early as 9 a.m. and works late into the evening, often continuing his duties from home until 2 a.m.
As of now, there has been no official statement from the Nigeria Police Force or IGP Egbetokun addressing these reports. In the absence of an official confirmation or denial, the veracity of these claims remains uncertain.
The situation underscores the challenges faced by public officials in maintaining transparency about personal health issues, especially when such matters intersect with public service responsibilities. The public and stakeholders await further clarification to assess the implications for the leadership of the Nigeria Police Force.