AGF Stands Firm: Defends IGP Egbetokun’s Shocking Tenure Elongation

The Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, has defended the continued tenure of Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun, asserting that his stay in office is both legal and lawful.

In a statement he personally signed on Thursday in Abuja, Fagbemi clarified that while Egbetokun’s appointment, effective from October 31, 2023, would typically have ended upon his 60th birthday on September 4, 2024, the Police Act was amended before his retirement age. This amendment allowed the IGP to serve out the original four-year term stipulated under Section 7(6) of the Act, even if he reached the age of 60.

As a result, Fagbemi explained, Egbetokun’s tenure was legally extended until October 31, 2027, enabling him to complete the four-year term granted to him at the time of his appointment.

“For the avoidance of doubt, Egbetokun’s continuous stay in office is in accordance with the amended Police Act of 2024, which permits the holder of the office to serve a full four-year term, starting from the date of appointment—in this case, October 31, 2023,” Fagbemi said.