Reps Approve Bill To Extend Tenure Of IGP

The National Assembly on Tuesday passed the Police Act Amendment Bill to enable a person appointed to the office of Inspector General of Police (IGP) to remain in office until the end of the term stipulated in the letter of appointment.

The Bill for an Act to amend the Nigeria Police Act 2020 sought to guarantee the tenure of the IGP and revolutionise police operations by enhancing accountability, modernising policing methods and fostering a more harmonious relationship between the police and the community.

The Bill expeditiously scaled second and third readings on Tuesday and was passed by lawmakers in both green and red chambers. The upper and lower chambers passed the bill at separate sittings.

President Tinubu is expected to sign the Bill into law.

The President appointed Egbetokun as the IGP in June 2023 for four years. He was appointed alongside four new service chiefs.

According to Section 18(8) of the Police Act 2020, Egbetokun, who was born on September 4, 1964, is expected to retire in September 2024, when he will be 60 years old.

He would only have been in office for one year and three months by September, with two years and nine months remaining of his four-year appointment.