- Egbetokun’s Exit a Step to Ease Tension, Says Security Expert
- Bakoji stated that the resignation appeared to be influenced by multiple factors
- Egbetokun was appointed as the 22nd Inspector-General of Police in June 2023
A retired Army Captain and security expert, Amb. Abdullahi Adamu Bakoji, has described the resignation of former Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, as a strategic decision aimed at easing public tension and restoring confidence in Nigeria’s security architecture, Eko Hot Blog reports.
Speaking in an interview on Wednesday, Bakoji said the development was not isolated but followed sustained public criticism, controversies over the handling of protests, and wider concerns about the perceived politicisation of the police force.
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He stated that the resignation appeared to be influenced by multiple factors, including pressure from civil society groups and political stakeholders who had openly expressed dissatisfaction with aspects of the former IGP’s leadership.
According to him, the timing of the resignation was particularly significant, suggesting it may have been carefully considered to help calm tensions arising from recent protests and ongoing debates around security reforms.
Bakoji noted that while efforts were made during Egbetokun’s tenure to maintain law and order, concerns were raised about balancing enforcement with the protection of citizens’ rights to peaceful assembly. He emphasised that striking that balance remains central to evaluating leadership within the security sector.
He also addressed questions surrounding institutional neutrality, explaining that although the Inspector-General of Police is expected to implement government policies, the police must remain impartial in order to sustain public trust. He added that perceptions of political alignment may have affected confidence in the force.
Egbetokun’s resignation was confirmed by the Presidency on Tuesday, with officials stating that he stepped down due to family-related matters requiring his attention. He has been replaced by Olatunji Disu.
Reports have also suggested that other considerations, including policy disagreements and compliance issues relating to security directives, may have contributed to the development. However, no official statement has confirmed these claims.
Egbetokun was appointed as the 22nd Inspector-General of Police in June 2023, with his tenure later extended following legislative amendments introducing a fixed four-year term for the office.
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