The South West Youth Alliance has condemned the publication by the Independent Newspaper claiming that IGP Kayode Egbetokun got a tenure extension as Inspector General of Police.
Reacting to a publication dated July 6, 2025, titled “IGP, CG Customs: Tenure Elongation And Institutional Integrity,” Publicity Director of the Alliance, Adenike Ajanlekoko, said that IGP Kayode Egbetokun’s tenure is fixed under Section 7(6) of the Nigeria Police Act, 2020, which stipulates that the person appointed as the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) shall hold office for a term of four years.
“Also, Section 8(a) of the Nigeria Police Act, as amended, deals with the tenure of the Inspector-General of Police (IGP). It stipulates that the IGP shall remain in office until the end of the term stipulated in their letter of appointment, notwithstanding the general retirement provisions for police officers.
“This amendment ensures the IGP’s tenure is protected and not subject to the standard retirement age or years of service.
Ajanlekoko further said that Section 8(a) of the Nigeria Police Act, as amended, aims to provide more stability and continuity in the leadership of the Nigeria police.
“It is already helping to revolutionise police operations by enhancing accountability, modernising policing methods, and fostering a more harmonious relationship between the police and the community.
“We would like to clarify a misconception regarding the tenured position of the Inspector-General of Police. This role has never hindered the career progression of the 371,800 officers currently serving in the force.
“We are aware that certain mischievous individuals with aspirations for the office of Inspector General of Police are behind the current misinformation regarding ‘tenure elongation.’ However, we will continue to educate them by providing relevant sections of the law,” the statement said.
