The Traffic

FEATURE STORY: Uncertainty Grips Police Force as IG Egbetokun's Retirement Looms

Yakubu Haruna Yakubu 

As Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun approaches retirement on September 4, the race to succeed him has intensified. However, uncertainty surrounds his retirement date due to a recent amendment to the Police Act, which allows the President to extend the IGP's tenure beyond 35 years of service or 60 years of age.

With President Tinubu currently abroad, tensions are mounting within the police high command. Officers from the ranks of Commissioners of Police, Assistant Inspectors-General, and Deputy Inspectors-General are lobbying intensely for the top position.

The fate of Egbetokun's retirement hangs in the balance, pending the President's decision on the amendment. If unsigned, Egbetokun will retire as scheduled. However, if signed into law, the President could extend his tenure, sparking debate about retroactive application.

Eight DIGs, 46 AIGs, and 125 CPs are eligible for the position, with four DIGs set to retire between September and December. The police force waits with bated breath as the President's decision will determine the future of the force and the successor to Egbetokun.