Human rights activist and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore has sharply criticized President Bola Ahmed Tinubu over the country's worsening insecurity, asserting that Tinubu’s refusal to remove Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun signals a lack of seriousness in tackling national security challenges.
Sowore made the remarks during a protest held at the Nigeria Police Force Headquarters in Abuja, where he and other demonstrators demanded the immediate removal of IGP Egbetokun. The activist described Egbetokun’s continued stay in office as “illegal and incompetent,” citing his alleged failure to retire upon reaching the mandatory age of 60 in September 2024.
“If President Tinubu is truly committed to ending insecurity, he must start by removing those who are illegally occupying sensitive positions and failing to deliver results,” Sowore declared. “IGP Egbetokun’s tenure extension is unconstitutional, and his leadership has done little to stem the tide of violence, kidnapping, and police misconduct across the country.”
The protest featured banners and placards comparing Egbetokun’s situation to that of other retired officers who faced consequences for overstaying their tenure. Sowore also referenced past allegations against the IGP, including claims of poor accountability and ineffective policing strategies.
In response, the Nigeria Police Force issued a statement dismissing Sowore’s claims as “baseless and misleading,” affirming that Egbetokun’s appointment followed due process and was ratified by the appropriate authorities. The Force emphasized ongoing reforms under Egbetokun’s leadership, including the passage of key police reform bills aimed at modernizing the institution and improving welfare for officers.
Despite the police’s rebuttal, Sowore insists that the IGP’s continued presence undermines public trust and emboldens criminal elements. He called on civil society, lawmakers, and the judiciary to intervene and uphold constitutional standards.