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The Nigeria Police leadership shake up is unfolding following reports that Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun has been removed from office. According to multiple senior sources, at least 29 high ranking officers including Deputy Inspectors General and Assistant Inspectors General are set to be affected by the restructuring.
The development marks a significant moment for the Nigeria Police Force, with leadership changes expected to be formally announced soon.
Reported presidential directive
Sources within the Police Service Commission and senior police leadership circles indicated that President Bola Tinubu ordered the removal of Egbetokun.
According to insiders, Egbetokun was summoned to the Presidential Villa and instructed to prepare his handover notes. While official confirmation was still pending at the time of reporting, multiple sources stated that the announcement could be made at any moment.
The Nigeria Police leadership shake up is expected to extend beyond the office of the Inspector General, affecting strategic command structures nationwide.
Successor reportedly identified
Sources say Egbetokun is to be succeeded by Tunji Disu, currently serving as Assistant Inspector General of Police in charge of the Force Criminal Investigation Department Annex in Alagbon, Lagos.
If confirmed, the appointment would signal a swift transition within the police hierarchy as authorities seek to stabilise the institution.
Officers set to be affected
At least 29 senior officers, including Deputy Inspectors General and Assistant Inspectors General, are reportedly set to be relieved of their positions as part of the Nigeria Police leadership shake up.
While full details of the restructuring have not been officially released, insiders describe the move as a comprehensive overhaul aimed at resetting leadership dynamics within the force.
Controversies surrounding Egbetokun’s tenure
Egbetokun’s time in office was marked by sustained public debate. One of the major issues involved the extension of his tenure beyond the mandatory retirement age of 60 years or 35 years of service.
Civil society groups and critics questioned the legality of the extension, arguing that it contradicted established police service regulations. The matter sparked nationwide discussions about institutional governance and adherence to established rules.
Allegations also surfaced regarding rapid promotions within the police structure. Reports claimed that certain officers received accelerated career advancement under circumstances that drew public scrutiny.
In addition, financial allegations involving funds traced to accounts linked to members of his family were widely reported. These claims generated debate over transparency and accountability within the force.
Legal battles and media scrutiny
During his tenure, Egbetokun initiated legal actions against activist Omoyele Sowore and media platform SaharaReporters following publications that questioned his legitimacy and conduct in office.
Court orders were reportedly issued restricting further publications concerning him and members of his family. Observers interpreted the legal disputes as part of a broader confrontation between police leadership and sections of the media.
These legal developments further shaped public perception during a period already characterised by tension and controversy.
Reactions within the force
Sources indicated that some police personnel reacted strongly to news of the reported removal. While reactions varied, insiders described an atmosphere of anticipation regarding the direction of the Nigeria Police leadership shake up.
If confirmed, the leadership transition could have wide ranging implications for command structure, discipline enforcement and operational priorities across the country.
What comes next
As Nigerians await formal confirmation, attention is focused on how the restructuring will affect institutional stability within the Nigeria Police Force.
The Nigeria Police leadership shake up represents one of the most significant changes in recent years. Observers say the coming days will determine how smoothly the transition unfolds and whether broader reforms will follow.
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