Human rights lawyer Hamza Nuhu Dantani, Esq., has strongly criticized the National Assembly’s approval of the Police Act, which facilitates the tenure elongation of Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun.
Dantani expressed concerns that the extension, following President Bola Tinubu’s request for Egbetokun to remain in office until 2027, could have severe repercussions for national security.
In a petition issued on Friday, Dantani condemned the National Assembly’s decision, arguing that it disrupts the police leadership structure, undermines the Constitution, and erodes public trust in governance.
The human rights activist also lamented that President Tinubu’s decision to extend Egbetokun’s tenure represents a clear case of nepotism, undermining morale and career progression within the police force.
Citing the relevant laws that govern the appointment and tenure of the IGP, Dantani warned that Egbetokun’s extension could negatively impact national unity.
In particular, he pointed to sections 7 and 18(8) of the Police Act 2020, which set retirement ages, and noted that the extension contravenes these provisions.
The controversial amendment of the Police Act by the National Assembly, in favor of an individual, undermines the rule of law, particularly the principle of equality before the law, Dantani argued.
“Under the law, no officer is allowed to remain in service after reaching the retirement age of 60 or after 35 years of pensionable service, whichever comes first. IGP Egbetokun, born on September 4, 1964, reaches the mandatory retirement age of 60 in September 2024.
“He does not fall under the exceptions, as he is neither a judicial officer nor an academician. By law, IGP Egbetokun should retire from the Nigerian Police Force and from his role as IGP upon reaching 60,” Dantani explained.
Dantani further criticized the National Assembly for diminishing presidential power and amending the Police Act to facilitate Egbetokun’s extension.
He referenced the rapid passage of the Police Act Amendment Bill on July 23, 2024, when the National Assembly, led by Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, quickly passed the Bill. Earlier that day, the House of Representatives approved the amendment, allowing the IGP to stay in office until the end of the term stipulated in his appointment letter. The Senate followed suit, following a request from the presidency for Egbetokun to serve out his term despite reaching the retirement age.
The Bill proposed an amendment to Section 18 of the Police Act, allowing the IGP to serve beyond the current limits of 35 years or the age of 60 by adding a new section, 18(8A).
Dantani also highlighted how the decision to extend the IGP’s tenure has blocked the promotion of other senior officers and created stagnation for junior officers.
He urged the President to prioritize merit and competence over personal affiliations in police appointments and promotions. “Institutions thrive when individuals are selected based on qualifications and capabilities, not connections,” Dantani concluded.
