The Nigeria Police Force has addressed concerns over Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun’s continued stay in office despite reaching the retirement age of 60. A statement from the Force emphasized that Egbetokun’s tenure follows the law, as President Bola Tinubu approved a four-year term for the IGP in accordance with constitutional provisions. The clarification dispels rumors of a tenure extension beyond public service rules.
The Nigeria Police Force has dismissed claims suggesting that Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun is violating public service rules by remaining in office after attaining the retirement age of 60. The Force made this clarification in response to public concerns over the IGP’s continued service.
According to Rule 020810 of Chapter Two of the Public Service Rules (PSR), the mandatory retirement age for public officers is 60 years or 35 years of pensionable service, whichever comes first. This rule further states that no officer should remain in service after reaching these milestones.
However, the Force Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, issued a statement on Friday asserting that President Bola Tinubu’s decision concerning IGP Egbetokun is in full compliance with legal provisions. Adejobi noted that the President’s approval in 2023 was not an extension of the IGP’s tenure but rather a lawful appointment governed by the provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
“The attention of the Nigeria Police Force has been drawn to various misleading reports and misinterpretations concerning the tenure of the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun,” Adejobi said. He explained that the IGP’s tenure was established in accordance with Section 215(a) and Section 28(c) of the Third Schedule of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which grants a four-year term to the holder of the office.
Adejobi further emphasized that the IGP’s continued service is aligned with proper legal procedures, and there has been no breach of public service rules. This clarification was necessary to quell any misunderstandings surrounding the tenure of the police chief.
In conclusion, the Nigeria Police Force urged the public to disregard any misleading information regarding Egbetokun’s tenure, assuring that all actions taken were within the framework of the law.
Keywords: Nigeria Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, retirement age, public service rules, President Tinubu, constitutional provisions, law enforcement