IGP Egbetokun’s Four-Year Tenure Confirmed, To Serve Until 2027

President Bola Tinubu has officially confirmed that Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun will remain in office until 2027, as originally stipulated in his appointment letter. This confirmation puts to rest speculation that his tenure had been extended.

A senior police official, speaking on condition of anonymity, clarified that the recent letter issued regarding Egbetokun’s tenure was not an extension but a reaffirmation of his four-year term, as outlined when he was appointed in June 2023.

“The tenure of the IGP was not extended but rather a clarification on his letter of appointment that stipulated four years in office,” the source stated.

Egbetokun’s appointment in June 2023 was part of a broader reshuffle, where he was named IGP alongside four new service chiefs. According to the Police Act 2020, he was initially expected to retire in September 2024, upon reaching the mandatory retirement age of 60. However, the recent clarification ensures he will complete his full term, with two years and nine months remaining.

This development follows the National Assembly’s swift passage of the Police Act Amendment Bill in July, which ensures that an IGP can serve out the full term specified in their appointment letter. The bill, which was passed by both the Senate and House of Representatives, was initially proposed by President Tinubu.

The issue of IGP tenure has been a recurring topic. Egbetokun’s predecessor, Usman Baba, similarly continued in office past the mandatory retirement age until he was replaced by Egbetokun in June 2023.

As of now, Egbetokun has been in office for one year and three months, with a confirmed tenure extending until 2027.