Over 500 Police Officers Retire; Sowore Slams IGP Egbetokun’s Leadership

 

Sowore Leads Protest Against IGP Egbetokun’s Continued Service

A wave of over 500 police retirements occurred in the past two months. Yet, IGP Kayode Egbetokun remains in service. Human rights activist Omoyele Sowore led a protest outside the police headquarters in Abuja on April 11, 2025. He denounced the decision to extend the IGP’s stay after he passed the mandatory service limits.

Sowore claims the law calls for retirement at 60 years or after 35 years of service. Reports show that Egbetokun turned 60 in early September 2024. Despite his age and service record, he continues to wear the uniform. Protesters held banners and chanted for change. They question why a man past his retirement should be allowed to remain.  

Critics argue that this move undermines fairness in the police force. Retirees and rank-and-file officers work hard despite low wages. Some sources report that many officers earn only around ₦57,000 a month. The low pay puts extra pressure on officers who protect large sums of money daily.  

The Senate passed a Police Act Amendment Bill in July 2024. This law granted a four-year extension to the Inspector General of Police. Officials in the Force Headquarters point to Section 7(6) of the amended Act. They claim this allows the IGP to serve his full term. The Attorney-General Lateef Fagbemi defends this extension as legal.  

However, Sowore and many citizens see this as a breach of the 1999 Constitution. They argue that no law can override service rules set for fairness. The activist warned that keeping an aging leader in command may harm the force. He pointed out that a new generation of officers now faces blocked career paths.  

Other reports show that similar discontent is spreading through the force. Retired officers have suffered greatly in their struggle to secure benefits. Some are said to have died in the fight for what they earned. The controversy over police retirements deepens the debate on proper reform in security forces.  

Many experts advise that public discussion is needed. They call for open talks among lawmakers, police leaders, and citizens. The need for better pay and proper retirement protocols is evident. The debate has sparked lively discourse in national newspapers and online media.  

The current situation forces Nigeria to examine its internal security policies. Critics say that allowing the IGP to serve past his term may undermine efforts to renew leadership. They worry that continuous extensions stifle the rise of new, capable leaders. This could worsen the security challenges that Nigeria faces today. 

Sowore’s protest calls for immediate action. He demands that Egbetokun vacate his office without delay. Protesters also ask that all salaries collected after the scheduled retirement be refunded. His movement urges a return to clear, fair service rules in the force.