A thought-provoking opinion piece by renowned public affairs analyst and clergy, Dr. Bolaji O. Akinyemi, is igniting conversations across Nigeria’s security and governance landscape. Titled “A Spent Horse In A Nation At War: Why IGP Egbetokun Must Go,” the Op-Ed presents a critical look at the current Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, and calls for his immediate replacement amidst Nigeria’s ongoing battle against insecurity.
In his analysis, Akinyemi draws parallels between leadership fatigue and national urgency, arguing that Nigeria cannot afford to rely on “spent horses” in a time of war against terror, banditry, and institutional decay. The Op-Ed highlights perceived failures in community policing, lack of strategic innovation, and what the author sees as a stagnation in command resolve.
“Leadership in wartime demands vitality, foresight, and action—not sentiments or ceremonial presence,” Akinyemi states in the piece. “The IGP has become emblematic of inertia at a time when kinetic response is non-negotiable.”
The article has sparked diverse reactions from civil society, political observers, and grassroots security advocates. While supporters hail it as a timely warning, critics question the fairness of singling out the IGP amid broader systemic challenges.