Concerns Within The Police Force About The Duration Of The Inspector General’S Tenure.

The retirement of the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, on September 4th has caused concern within the Nigeria Police Force. There are indications that Egbetokun may benefit from the new Police Act Amendment Bill, which sets the tenure of the IG at four years. The bill was recently passed by both chambers of the National Assembly and awaits the signature of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Senior police officers at the Louis Edet House, Headquarters of the Nigeria Police Force in Abuja, are questioning whether Egbetokun will hold office for another three years if the bill becomes law before his retirement. Egbetokun was appointed by Tinubu in June 2023 and is due to retire in September 2024, according to Section 18(8) of the Police Act 2020.

The new Police Act Amendment Bill, however, introduces a controversial amendment in Section 18(8A). This amendment states that any person appointed to the office of Inspector-General of Police shall remain in office until the end of the term stipulated in their appointment letter. This implies that Egbetokun could potentially stay in office until June 2027, unless removed by the president.

These developments have raised concerns among human rights lawyers and civil society groups. They argue that Egbetokun should not be granted the new term limit due to his track record of targeting journalists under the pretext of enforcing the Cybercrime Act, while neglecting the rising insecurity in the country. Critics also question the repeated amendments to Nigeria’s laws to cater to the interests of those in power, which they believe undermines the strength of democratic institutions.

Furthermore, there is dissatisfaction among some members of the police force regarding the retirement policies. Deputy Inspectors General of Police (DIGs), Assistant Inspectors General of Police (AIGs), Commissioners of Police, and other officers are expected to retire at the age of 60 or after 35 years of service, while the Inspector-General of Police is granted an automatic four-year tenure, regardless of their age at appointment.

These discrepancies have sparked a debate about the need for stronger and independent institutions in Nigeria’s democracy. Critics argue that robust institutions, like those in the United States, contribute to economic dominance and citizen participation. They question the motives behind amending the Police Act and call for laws that prioritize institutional strength rather than personal interests.

In light of the concerns raised, there are calls for President Tinubu to carefully consider the implications of granting Egbetokun an extended tenure under the new police law.