Babatope Okeowo 
A human rights lawyer, Tolu Babaleye, has described the continued stay in office of the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun after attaining 60 years of age and 35 years in service as unconstitutional.
Babaleye said sections 7(6) and 18(8) of the Police Act 2020 and Public Service Rule have been violated with the continued stay of Egbetokun in office.
Consequently, he asked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to urgently address the controversy of Egbetokun, who has attained the mandatory age of 60 and 35 years of service to create the impression of impunity in the minds of the citizens.
In an open letter to President Tinubu, the senior lawyer said the development has sparked fears of a constitutional crisis and potential instability within the Nigeria Police Force (NPF).
It read “The President must act swiftly to prevent a constitutional crisis, ensure the integrity of the Nigeria Police Force, and uphold the rule of law.”
Babaleye stated that the nation cannot afford to have its security apparatus compromised by uncertainty and illegality.”
The human rights activist demanded that Egbetokun’s tenure as IGP be brought to an end due to age and years of service, saying the letter appointing Egbetokun as IGP for four years be withdrawn and a new IGP be appointed following constitutional provisions.
He emphasized the need for President Tinubu to prioritize transparency, accountability, and the rule of law in resolving this crisis.
His words “The President’s prompt action will reassure Nigerians of his commitment to upholding the Constitution and ensuring the stability of our security institutions.
“The Police Act 2020 stipulates that every police officer shall retire from the service after 35 years of service or upon attaining the age of 60, whichever comes first. Section 7(6) provides for a four-year tenure for the IGP, but this provision is inconsistent with the retirement age and years of service. This inconsistency must be addressed to prevent future conflicts”
Babaleye said President Tinubu’s leadership is crucial in resolving this crisis and ensuring the Nigeria Police Force’s effectiveness.
His words “This issue goes beyond individual interests; it is about upholding the Constitution and protecting the rule of law. We must prioritize the integrity of our institutions and ensure that our leaders act by the law.”
