The Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) has raised concerns over the tenure extension of Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, warned that the decision could undermine the structure and efficiency of the Nigeria Police Force.
In a press statement issued on Monday, February 3, 2025, MURIC’s Executive Director, Professor Ishaq Akintola, cautioned that the move might breed division within the force and diminish public confidence in the police.
MURIC highlighted the legal amendments that allowed the extension, noted that while Section 18(8) of the Police Act previously mandated retirement at 60 years or 35 years of service whichever came first the amendment introduced Section 18(8A), which permits an IGP to remain in office until the end of their stipulated term.
Despite acknowledging improvements in policing under Egbetokun, the organization urged him to step down to preserve his legacy.
“As the 22nd IGP, Egbetokun will be remembered for improved security in his time. Our sincere advice is that he should bow out now before this controversy gets messy and tarnishes an otherwise clean record,” Akintola stated.
The statement emphasized the need to sustain public trust in the police, warning that any policy change capable of dampening morale should be avoided.
The tenure extension has sparked debates within security circles, with stakeholders expressing divergent views on its implications for the police force and national security.
