Omoyele Sowore, the prominent activist, journalist, and presidential candidate, has once again called for the immediate retirement of Kayode Egbetokun, the current Inspector General of Police (IGP), describing his appointment as "illegal" and urging a fresh leadership overhaul within the Nigeria Police Force.
Sowore, who has been a vocal critic of the Nigerian government and its security institutions, emphasized that Egbetokun’s tenure is tainted by a lack of legitimacy. Sowore pointed to the recent formation of a new police management structure, which he claims is part of a broader effort to rejuvenate the force following the retirement of several senior officers who were found to have falsified their ages.
According to Sowore, the police force's credibility has been compromised by the ongoing presence of officers who have overstayed their retirement age, undermining the professional integrity and effectiveness of the security apparatus. He further asserts that Egbetokun’s leadership fails to inspire the necessary trust and reform that Nigerians deserve.
"I have said it before, and I will say it again: Kayode Egbetokun's appointment as IGP is illegal, and the time for him to retire has long passed," said Sowore in a statement issued today. "The Nigeria Police Force needs new leadership that can effectively address the systemic problems within its ranks, restore public trust, and ensure the safety of Nigerians. Egbetokun's continued presence at the helm only exacerbates these issues."
Sowore's call comes at a critical moment for the Nigerian Police, as efforts to reform the force are underway following the retirement of several senior officers whose ages had been deliberately manipulated to extend their tenures. This has sparked widespread outrage among Nigerians, many of whom see this as a reflection of the broader issues plaguing the country's law enforcement system.
Sowore has long championed reforms within Nigeria's police and security sectors, advocating for transparency, accountability, and the removal of corrupt or unfit individuals from positions of power. His renewed campaign to have Egbetokun step down is part of his broader vision for a more just and effective government that puts the welfare and safety of the people first.