The Ndigbo Young Professionals have criticized Bolaji O. Akinyemi, who claims to be an Apostle and Nation Builder, for his reckless and ignorant article about IGP Egbetokun.
In response to an article published in Sahara Reporters titled “A Spent Horse in a Nation at War: Why IGP Egbetokun Must Go,” by Bolaji O. Akinyemi, the National Coordinator, Ambassador Chukwuemeka Chinonso, stated that it is unfortunate Bolaji O. Akinyemi has joined the ranks of individuals claiming that IGP Kayode Egbetokun has received an “elongation of tenure beyond retirement age.”
“Before Egbetokun became the Inspector General of Police, Section 7(6) of the Nigeria Police Act, 2020, had already existed, which stipulates that the person appointed to the office of the Inspector General of Police (IGP) shall hold office for a term of four years,” Ambassador Chinonso stated.
“The National Assembly, in its wisdom, amended Section 18(8A) of the Police Act, 2020, to allow an Inspector-General of Police (IGP) to serve the full four-year term stipulated in their appointment letter, even if it exceeds the previous limits of 35 years of service or 60 years of age.
“This amendment overrides the previous provision in Section 8 of the Act, which mandated retirement at either 35 years of service or 60 years of age, whichever came first.
Ambassador Chinonso highlighted that the amendment aims to provide stability and continuity in the leadership of the Nigeria Police Force by preventing the arbitrary removal of the IGP before the end of their term.
“We wish to enlighten Bolaji O. Akinyemi on the fact that, despite Nigeria being in the midst of a security emergency, IGP Egbetokun has managed to curb crime and criminality to the barest minimum.
“In confronting the worsening security situation in the country, Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun, on January 17, 2024, inaugurated the Special Intervention Squad.
“The Squad has successfully addressed situations that threaten the peace of the citizenry and has worked to restore law and order across the nation. The SIS has been pivotal in safeguarding the lives and property of all Nigerians while guaranteeing the supremacy of the state and the rule of law, thus protecting the integrity of our nation.
“In 2024, a total of 139 suspects involved in kidnapping and armed robbery were apprehended, along with the recovery of three GPR chargers, two AK-47 rifles, one Type-06, four locally fabricated guns, one Beretta pistol, two Makarov pistols, four locally fabricated pump-action guns, and 504 pieces of AK-47 ammunition, as well as 100 pieces of AA ammunition. Additionally, 154 kidnapped victims were rescued unharmed.
“Among the successes mentioned above was the interception, along the Abuja-Kaduna motorway, of three major suppliers of arms and ammunition to bandits operating in Niger, Zamfara, and Kaduna States.
“Similarly, operatives of the squad engaged armed bandits within the FCT-Kaduna axis in a fierce gun battle on Friday, January 26, 2024, during which three bandits, including their gang leader, one Mai-Gemu (aka Gadoro), were neutralised.
Ambassador Chinonso also stated that on October 30, 2024, Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun launched the Schools Protection Squad, aimed at ensuring security in educational institutions across the country.
“We wish to draw Bolaji O. Akinyemi’s attention to the IGP’s achievements in 2025. Between January and March 2025, the Nigeria Police Force reported a total of 475 incidents across the six geopolitical zones. In March alone, the country experienced a significant surge in violence, with 363 people killed and 101 abducted.
“The police also apprehended 82 suspects for financial and cybercrimes in January. Furthermore, from February to date, the police have arrested 987 suspects, including those involved in armed robbery, kidnapping, and other violent crimes.
“Between April and May 2025, the Nigeria Police Force arrested 1,774 criminal suspects involved in various offences, including kidnapping, armed robbery, cultism, and murder.
“Additionally, 274 firearms, 2,583 rounds of ammunition, and 187 stolen or unregistered vehicles were recovered. The police also successfully rescued 476 kidnapped victims, some from highly challenging terrains.
Ambassador Chinonso further said that Mr. President never asked the IGP to stand up in Benue, as mischievously written by Bolaji O. Akinyemi.
“Police, I hope your men are on alert to listen to information. How come no arrest has been made? I expect there should be an arrest of those criminals,” Tinubu said.
“Bolaji O. Akinyemi, who seems unaware of the intricacies involved in the investigation process, has chosen to criticise IGP Kayode Egbetokun without understanding,” he continued.
“There are several critical stages in the investigation process that must be followed before an arrest can occur. The specifics can vary based on jurisdiction and the nature of the offence. We do not expect the IGP to publicly disclose details about potential arrests, as this could compromise ongoing investigations,” Ambassador Chionoso explained.
“In conclusion, we invite Bolaji O. Akinyemi to visit the Force Headquarters to witness firsthand the significant reforms, morale-boosting initiatives, modern strategies for community policing, and professionalism that are being implemented to address contemporary asymmetric threats. IGP Egbetokun is dedicated to transforming the Nigeria Police into a competent, service-oriented, rule of law-compliant, and community-friendly institution, the statement concluded.
