The Nigerian Police Force, has described as false, claims the current Inspector General (IG), Kayode Egbetokun is scheming to extend his tenure. The spokesman for the Police Force, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, in a statement, said the news making rounds about a proposed amendment to the Nigeria Police Act 2020, seeking to extend the years of service for Police officers from 35 to 40 years and the age limit from 60 to 65 years, was only a part of an ongoing legislative process.
Adejobi said the bill was originally introduced during the 8th Assembly but did not progress beyond the initial stages before the Assembly’s dissolution.
The statement read “The Nigeria Police Force is deeply perturbed by the dissemination of false information across various media platforms, notably the distorted publication by Sahara Reporters.
“The misleading publications allege that IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun personally initiated this bill to prolong his tenure as the 22nd indigenous Inspector General of Police and has allegedly invested significantly in lobbying lawmakers to facilitate its passage.
“It is regrettable that certain media outlets and their sponsors have chosen to propagate baseless accusations, ignorantly disregarding the fact that any modification to existing legislation is designed to enhance its effectiveness and relevance.
“To understand the true motivations behind this initiative, one need only look at the Inspector-General of Police’ steadfast commitment to reforming the Nigeria Police Force. His advocacy for this bill stems from a genuine belief in its potential to improve the conditions of service for police officers and thereby bolster security nationwide, rather than seeking personal gain. It comes from the place of duty rather than benefit”.
Adejobi went on to clarify that the tenure of an IG is only 4 years and only the President is empowered to hire and fire. He, therefore, urged the public to be discerning and ignore unverified claims.
