The Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, has stated that the continued stay in office of the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, is both legal and lawful.
Fagbemi’s remark comes amid the ongoing controversy over Egbetokun’s tenure, which was sparked by activist and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore.
In a statement on Thursday, Fagbemi clarified that Egbetokun’s continued stay in office is legal, contrary to claims that he should no longer remain in office.
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He explained that Egbetokun’s appointment, which took effect on the 31st of October, 2023, would have ended upon his attainment of 60 years of age on the 4th of September, 2024.
However, Fagbemi noted that the Police Act had been amended before his retirement age, allowing the occupant of the office to remain in position and complete the original four-year term granted under Section 7(6) of the Act, regardless of having reached the age of 60.
As a result, the tenure of Egbetokun has been statutorily extended until the 31st of October, 2027, to enable him to complete the four-year term granted to him.
For the avoidance of doubt, Fagbemi emphasised that Egbetokun’s continued stay in office aligns with the amended provisions of the Police Act of 2024, which allow the occupant of the IGP office to serve a four-year term, starting from the date of his appointment—in this case, the 31st of October, 2023.
“This advisory is necessary for the guidance of the general public”, Fagbemi said.
