… Ex-IGP Clashed With Tinubu Over State Policing Reforms, VIP Security Withdrawal
…Harassment Of Journalists Under His Watch Also Reportedly Embarrassed Govt
Daud Olatunji
Contrary to the official claim that former Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun resigned for family reasons, sources within the presidency told PLATFORM TIMES that President Bola Tinubu personally asked him to step down over three key issues.
Egbetokun, who was appointed the 22nd IGP on June 19, 2023, and confirmed by the Nigeria Police Council in October 2023, was expected to complete a four-year term ending October 2027 following an amendment to the Police Act granting IGPs a fixed tenure.
However, insiders said the former police chief’s tenure ended prematurely because he clashed with the presidency on critical policy matters.
Opposition to State Policing
The first reason, according to sources, was Mr. Egbetokun’s opposition to the creation of state policing. President Tinubu has repeatedly advocated for state-controlled police to improve local security.
Egbetokun, however, argued that Nigeria was not yet “mature” for such a system and warned it could be abused by state officials for political or personal gain.
Despite his reservations, Mr. Tinubu has continued to push for state policing as a reform to strengthen national security.
Poor Compliance with VIP Withdrawal Directive
The second reason for the former IGP’s removal involved his handling of a presidential directive on the withdrawal of police officers assigned to VIPs.
Issued in November 2025, the order required that VIPs seeking security protection should obtain personnel from the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) instead.
Sources said compliance under Egbetokun’s watch was considered too low, raising concerns at the highest level of government.
The third factor cited was the blacklisting of Mr. Egbetokun by International Press Institute (IPI) Nigeria over alleged harassment of journalists.
Reports indicate that 24 journalists faced arbitrary arrests, detentions, and summonses during his tenure, with minimal corrective action taken.
Sources said the presidency viewed the blacklisting as an embarrassment and a mark against his leadership.
Following his resignation on February 24, President Tinubu appointed Olatunji Disu, an Assistant Inspector General, as acting IGP.
The transition comes amid ongoing reforms aimed at modernising the Nigeria Police Force and improving accountability within the service.
Source :Premium Times
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