“God Timed My Removal as IGP” — Egbetokun

The immediate past Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, says his removal from office by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu happened at the right time and reflects what he believes is God’s plan.

Egbetokun made the remark on Saturday during a retirement thanksgiving service held in his honour at the Nigeria Police Force Headquarters Chapel in Abuja. The event also included the inauguration of the police chaplaincy building and drew senior officers and worshippers.

“I was not expecting the appointment when it came. The first thing I did when I entered the office alone was to pray,” he said.

Egbetokun explained that when he assumed office in 2023, he made three personal prayers: for wisdom to lead the police, for the grace to end his tenure well, and not to remain in office longer than God intended.

“My first prayer was for wisdom to run the office, the second for grace to end well, and the third not to stay a day longer than God permits,” he said.

“I believe God has answered those prayers.”

Reflecting on his career in the Nigeria Police Force, Egbetokun said faith influenced his journey from his early years after graduating from the police academy through his leadership of the force.

He also recalled a dream he had before joining the police in which he saw himself as a Deputy Inspector-General, travelling in a police vehicle with the registration number “NPF02.”

The experience, he said, later taught him that life sometimes unfolds in ways people do not expect.

Egbetokun recently stepped down as Inspector-General following a directive from Tinubu. He said throughout his career he remained conscious that his actions could shape the public perception of the police.

“I knew whatever I did would affect the image of the force, so I made it my duty to remain professional and uphold integrity, transparency and fairness,” he said.

Speaking at the event, the Force Chaplain, Joshua Omoyele, commended Egbetokun for completing the Police Chaplaincy building project during his tenure.

Omoyele said the former police chief had long been committed to Christian service even before his appointment as Inspector-General and maintained that commitment while in office.

He also noted Egbetokun’s record during earlier assignments, including his time as Commissioner of Police in Kwara State and as Assistant Inspector-General in Zone 7. The chaplain further credited him with initiating the police force’s annual Christmas carol programme and expanding its reach nationwide.