In a significant legislative move, the House of Representatives has approved amendments to the Police Act, allowing the Inspector General of Police (IGP) to serve until the end of their appointed term. The decision, spurred by President Bola Tinubu’s request, seeks to amend the Nigeria Police Act 2020 to provide stability in the leadership of the police force.
The amended legislation aims to enhance police operations by promoting accountability, modernizing policing methods, and fostering better community relations. During the bill’s consideration on Tuesday, lawmakers unanimously voted to expedite its passage.
Earlier in July, amidst speculations, police authorities clarified that the incumbent IGP, Kayode Egbetokun, was not involved in efforts to influence the National Assembly regarding a bill on raising the retirement age of officers. Appointed in June 2023, Egbetokun is set to serve a four-year term alongside new service chiefs.
Section 18 of the Principal Act now includes a new Sub-Section (8A), stipulating that the IGP shall serve until the end of their appointed term, overriding the previous retirement age requirement set by Section 18(8) of the Police Act 2020.
This legislative move underscores efforts to ensure continuity and effective leadership within the Nigerian Police Force, aligning with broader goals of institutional reform and efficiency in law enforcement.
