On Wednesday, human rights activist Omoyele Sowore led a protest to the Nigeria Police Force Headquarters (FHQ) in Abuja, calling for the immediate removal of the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun.
Sowore and his group of protesters accused Egbetokun of unlawfully remaining in office despite reaching the mandatory retirement age in September 2024.
The protesters, carrying large banners depicting an altered image of Egbetokun wearing President Tinubu’s signature cap, with his face crossed out in red, chanted solidarity songs during the rally. They argued that Egbetokun’s continued service violated the 1999 Constitution, which mandates that public servants retire after 35 years of service or at the age of 60, whichever comes first.
Speaking to the media, Sowore pointed out the contradiction in Egbetokun’s actions. He noted that while the IGP had overseen the retirements of Deputy Inspectors General (DIGs), Assistant Inspectors General (AIGs), and Commissioners of Police (CPs) in recent months, he had refused to step down himself.
“One retired officer is in jail for impersonating a police officer, while Egbetokun continues in office after retirement. This is both unjust and unacceptable,” Sowore asserted.
The protesters referenced a statement from the Attorney General in September 2024, which confirmed that Egbetokun’s tenure had legally ended. They questioned why President Bola Tinubu had allowed Egbetokun to remain in office, despite this legal confirmation.
Sowore also addressed the issue of constitutional integrity, saying, “Even President Tinubu has no authority to override the Constitution. If he values Egbetokun so much, he could appoint him as a manager of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) after retirement. However, no retired officer should be allowed to wear the police uniform.”
The activist further criticized Egbetokun’s leadership in light of the country’s escalating security crisis, pointing to the recent killing of about 60 people in Plateau State within 48 hours before the police mobilized tactical units. Sowore questioned the effectiveness of the police, asking, “What happened to intelligence gathering? Is the police only effective when tracking critics on social media?”
He also expressed concern over the demoralizing effect of Egbetokun’s extended tenure on lower-ranking police officers, particularly those aspiring to rise through the ranks. “How can Assistant Superintendents of Police (ASPs) dream of becoming IGP if the position is held hostage?” Sowore remarked.
In conclusion, Sowore demanded that Egbetokun vacate the office immediately and refund all salaries collected since his official retirement date of September 4, 2024.
