A major shake-up is imminent within the Nigeria Police Force following the reported removal of Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, with at least 29 senior officers said to be affected.
Sources disclosed on Tuesday that several Deputy Inspectors General of Police (DIGs) and Assistant Inspectors General of Police (AIGs) are set to be relieved of their duties in the aftermath of the development. The move is believed to be part of a broader restructuring within the force.
Multiple senior officials and insiders at the Police Service Commission confirmed that President Bola Tinubu approved Egbetokun’s removal. An official announcement is expected shortly.
Egbetokun is reportedly to be succeeded by Tunji Disu, currently the Assistant Inspector General of Police in charge of the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID) Annex in Alagbon, Lagos.
According to sources familiar with the situation, Egbetokun was summoned to the Presidential Villa and directed to prepare his handover notes. He is expected to formally transfer leadership to Disu.
His tenure as Inspector-General was marked by controversy, particularly over the extension of his service beyond the statutory retirement age of 60 years or 35 years in service. The extension drew criticism from civil society groups and legal analysts, who argued it contravened established police service regulations and raised concerns about institutional integrity.
Allegations of favoritism also trailed his administration, including claims of irregular promotions within the force. Reports had further linked his tenure to financial impropriety allegations involving members of his family, though these claims remain contentious.
During his time in office, Egbetokun was also involved in legal disputes with activist Omoyele Sowore and the online platform SaharaReporters over reports and commentary describing him as an “illegal IGP.” The matter resulted in court actions, including injunctions restricting further publications related to him and his family.
Observers say the unfolding changes signal a significant transition for the police force, with expectations that the new leadership will address internal reforms and restore public confidence.
An official statement from the Presidency and relevant authorities is awaited.
