Abuja — The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has resigned from office, bringing to an end his tenure as the nation’s 22nd police chief.
Presidential sources confirmed on Tuesday that Egbetokun submitted his resignation letter to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, citing family reasons for his decision to step down. The President was said to have accepted the resignation with immediate effect.
In a brief statement from the Presidency, Tinubu commended the outgoing police chief for his service to the country and his contributions to efforts aimed at strengthening internal security. He acknowledged Egbetokun’s decades of experience in the Nigeria Police Force and wished him well in his future endeavours.
Following the development, the President approved the appointment of Tunji Disu, an Assistant Inspector-General of Police (AIG), as Acting Inspector-General of Police pending confirmation in line with statutory provisions.
Egbetokun was appointed Inspector-General on June 19, 2023. His tenure witnessed a series of security operations targeting kidnapping, armed robbery and other violent crimes across the country. However, the police under his leadership also faced sustained public scrutiny over rising insecurity in parts of the country.
Security analysts view the leadership change as a significant development within Nigeria’s security architecture, particularly at a time when the Federal Government continues to grapple with complex internal security challenges.
Disu, who now assumes office in acting capacity, is regarded within policing circles as an experienced operational officer. Stakeholders say his immediate task will be to consolidate ongoing reforms and intensify efforts to curb criminality nationwide.
The appointment is expected to be ratified in accordance with the provisions of the Police Act after necessary consultations.
