 |
| Attorney General Fagbemi clarifies IGP Egbetokun's tenure legality. |
In the ever-evolving landscape of Nigeria's law enforcement, the landscape undergoes frequent significant changes in leadership. Inspector General Kayode Egbetokun sparks intense discussion. Egbetokun was appointed on October 31, 2023, initially slated for retirement on September 4, 2024, upon reaching sixty years old. Legislative amendments now extend his term, stirring support and criticism simultaneously amidst uncertainty.
The Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi SAN, clarified that the extension of Egbetokun's tenure is lawful due partly to recent amendments. He emphasized the Police Act allows the IGP to serve a full four-year term irrespective of the mandatory retirement age. This means Egbetokun's tenure now extends to October 31, 2027.
The Nigeria Police Force has also addressed circulating misinformation regarding the IGP's tenure. Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Muyiwa Adejobi, emphasized that President Bola Tinubu's approval of Egbetokun's four-year term aligns with constitutional provisions. He stated, "The IGP does not need to lobby for any tenure extension as his appointment letter explicitly grants him a four-year tenure from the date of his appointment."
Despite these clarifications, some critics labeled Egbetokun's continued stay in office as utterly illegal and highly questionable. Omoyele Sowore, convener of the #RevolutionNow movement, voiced objections on social media, leading to his arrest and subsequent arraignment before the Federal High Court in Abuja. Sowore pleaded not guilty to a 16-count charge related to cybercrime brought against him by IGP in a dramatic turn of events.
Additionally, the Rule of Law and Accountability Advocacy Centre (RULAAC) has expressed concerns over the extension of the Police Act, which they describe as bad faith serving selfish agendas rather than the nation's interests. RULAAC argues such extensions undermine accountability principles and governance. The alteration of the Police Act supposedly serves political agendas.
The crux of the matter lies in balancing the legal frameworks that permit such extensions with public perception and trust. While the amendments provide a legal basis for the tenure extension, it's essential to consider the broader implications on public confidence in law enforcement leadership.
This situation underscores the importance of fostering constructive discussions about law governance and public trust. Engaging openly helps bridge gaps in understanding and ensures decisions made in power corridors resonate positively with the populace.