In a significant reshuffle of the nation’s security architecture, President Bola Tinubu has removed the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, from office. In his stead, the President has appointed Tunji Disu, an Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG), to lead the Nigeria Police Force.
The transition followed a high-level meeting at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Monday, during which the President reportedly directed Mr Egbetokun to tender his resignation.
Mr Egbetokun was appointed as the 22nd Inspector General of Police on 19 June 2023, with his position formally confirmed by the Nigeria Police Council later that year in October.
The tail end of his leadership was marked by significant debate regarding his retirement. Having attained the age of 58 upon his appointment, Mr Egbetokun was constitutionally due to retire on 4 September 2024, upon reaching the mandatory age of 60. However, President Tinubu had controversially extended his tenure, a move that drew scrutiny from legal experts and civil society groups alike.
The newly appointed IGP, Tunji Disu, steps into the role from his previous rank as an Assistant Inspector General. AIG Disu is widely regarded within the force for his professional record, having previously served in high-profile capacities, including as the head of the Police Intelligence Response Team (IRT).
The abrupt nature of the directive for Mr Egbetokun’s resignation has sparked widespread speculation within political and security circles. While the Presidency has yet to issue an official statement detailing the specific reasons for the change in leadership, analysts suggest the move may be part of a broader strategy to revitalise internal security operations.
The Nigeria Police Force now prepares for a transition in command at a time when the country faces complex security challenges, ranging from urban crime to regional insurgencies. The incoming IGP, Tunji Disu, is expected to outline his operational priorities in the coming days following a formal handover ceremony.
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