The Committee for the Defence of Human Rights (CDHR) has strongly opposed the continued stay in office of Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun, arguing that it violates civil service rules and undermines democratic principles......CONTINUE READING THE ARTICLE FROM THE SOURCE>>>>>
In a statement issued by its National President, Mr. Debo Adeniran, the group condemned what it described as a “brazen disregard for the rule of law” in extending Egbetokun’s tenure beyond the statutory retirement age.
Egbetokun, appointed on October 31, 2023, was expected to retire on September 4, 2024, upon reaching 60 years of age. However, an amendment to the Police Act allowed him to complete a four-year term, extending his stay until October 31, 2027.
CDHR argued that while the amendment to the Police Act provides for a fixed tenure, it contradicts civil service rules, which mandate that all police officers retire at 60 years or after 35 years of service, whichever comes first. The group insisted that Egbetokun remains a civil servant and must abide by these regulations.
“The civil service Rule has been incorporated into the Police Act as the retirement age of every Police officer 60 years or 35 years of service whichever comes first. This provision is the foundation as you cannot be IGP without being a serving officer in the Police Force. Morally and ethically, the IGP is a civil servant who should be bound by the Civil Service Rules.
“Any attempt to extend or manipulate this tenure for the IGP outside legal frameworks is an affront to the principles of justice, fairness, and accountability. It sets a dangerous precedent for impunity, political interference, and the weakening of institutional integrity,” the statement read.
The group also emphasized the impact of tenure elongation on career progression within the police force, stating that younger officers should have the opportunity to rise through the ranks.
“Inasmuch as we are not discountenancing his wealth of experience but then if the older ones don’t go the younger ones will not ascend the ladder, so he should be kind enough to relinquish the post for somebody that is younger in obedience to the Public Service Rules. Moreover, the rights of his junior officers to career progression and advancement should not be truncated, stunted or stagnated,” CDHR added.
The human rights group called on President Bola Tinubu to immediately appoint a new Inspector General of Police in line with constitutional provisions. They also urged the National Assembly, civil society organisations, and Nigerians to resist any attempt to manipulate the law for political or personal interests.
“We call on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and relevant authorities to uphold the rule of law by ensuring the immediate appointment of a new Inspector General of Police in line with constitutional provisions. Furthermore, we urge the National Assembly, civil society organizations, and all well-meaning Nigerians to resist any attempts to subvert the sanctity of our laws and democratic processes.
“The Nigeria Police Force is a critical institution responsible for safeguarding lives, properties, and the overall security of the nation. Its leadership must reflect competence, integrity, and strict adherence to the law, rather than political maneuvering.
“We demand immediate action to restore public confidence in the rule of law and ensure that the principles of democracy are upheld. Nigeria cannot afford to sacrifice legality on the altar of personal or political interests,” the group noted.