A major restructuring is set to sweep through the Nigeria Police Force following the reported removal of Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, with at least 29 senior officers said to be facing dismissal.
Online platform SaharaReporters reported on Tuesday that President Bola Tinubu ordered Egbetokun’s removal from office. Senior police officials and sources within the Police Service Commission were cited as confirming the development.
Although an official announcement was yet to be made as of press time, sources indicated that Egbetokun had been directed to prepare his handover notes and would be succeeded by Tunji Disu, the Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID) Annex, Alagbon, Lagos.
In what appears to be a sweeping clean-up at the top hierarchy of the Force, 29 senior officers, including Deputy Inspectors General (DIGs) and Assistant Inspectors General (AIGs), are reportedly set to be relieved of their positions.
A source quoted in the report claimed that the President asked Egbetokun to step aside, citing mounting controversies and health concerns. The source further alleged that some officers within the Force celebrated upon hearing the news of his removal.
Tenure Marked by Controversy
Egbetokun’s leadership was dogged by sustained public debate, particularly over the extension of his tenure beyond the mandatory retirement age of 60 years or 35 years of service. Critics argued that his continued stay in office violated established service rules, raising concerns about institutional integrity and favoritism.
The former IGP was also at the center of allegations involving rapid promotions within the Force, including that of a principal staff officer, Bukola Yemisi Kuti, whose advancement attracted scrutiny and public criticism.
Further controversy arose following reports that ₦100 million from Anambra State’s security vote was allegedly traced to an account linked to his son, Victor. The claims sparked public outcry and legal disputes.
In response to reports and public commentary, particularly by activist Omoyele Sowore, Egbetokun initiated multiple legal actions, securing court injunctions restricting further publications concerning him and members of his family.
Observers argued that the resort to litigation, rather than open investigation, deepened perceptions of tension between the police leadership and sections of the public.
If confirmed, the reported shake-up could signal a significant reset within the Nigeria Police Force, with implications for internal hierarchy, public confidence, and ongoing reform efforts.