The Nigeria Police Force has countered the recent claims made by activist Omoyele Sowore, suggesting that the tenure of Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun is illegal.
The Force Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, made it known in a statement released this Thursday that such claims were entirely baseless and misleading, saying that they were aimed at undermining the legitimacy of Egbetokun’s appointment.
Adejobi highlighted that Egbetokun’s appointment is fully legal and conforms to the provisions of the amended Police Act of 2020.
He said the IGP’s appointment was authorised by the Police Council and confirmed by the Presidency, ensuring that his tenure, which runs from October 31, 2023, to October 31, 2027, is both legally binding and duly recognised.
The statement read, “IGP Egbetokun’s appointment is firmly grounded in law, specifically PART III, Section 7 (6) of the Police Act, 2020 (as amended), which states that ‘The person appointed to the office of the Inspector-General of Police shall hold office for four years.”
According to the statement, amendments to the Police Act have strengthened the role of the Inspector-General of Police, ensuring stability and continuity in leadership, which allows the IGP to implement long-term strategies for national security without fear of sudden termination.
In the statement, the Nigeria Police Force strongly rejected Sowore’s claims, saying it was an attempt to sow discord and erode public confidence in the Force’s leadership.
The police warned that such misinformation could threaten national security and weaken the public’s trust in the law enforcement agency.
In concluding the statement, the PPRO urged all citizens to focus on objective discussions that will improve national safety and security. He warned that the spread of disinformation could undermine significant efforts being made to ensure peace and order across the country.