The Presidency on Tuesday confirmed the resignation of Kayode Egbetokun as Inspector-General of Police, clarifying that his exit from office was voluntary and not the result of a dismissal.
Egbetokun, whose tenure was extended by one year in 2025, formally tendered his resignation letter on Tuesday, citing personal family reasons. The confirmation was given by the Presidential spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, following enquiries from journalists.
“Egbetokun resigned today. He was not sacked,” Onanuga stated, adding that an official statement from the Presidency would be released later in the day to provide further details surrounding the decision.
Egbetokun was appointed the 22nd Inspector-General of Police on June 19, 2023, and his appointment was subsequently confirmed by the Nigeria Police Council on October 31, 2023. He assumed office at the age of 58.
Under existing regulations, Egbetokun was originally due to retire on September 4, 2024, upon reaching the mandatory retirement age of 60. However, the National Assembly later amended the Police Act, allowing him to complete a four-year tenure unless removed by the President.
Following his resignation, Egbetokun has been replaced by Tunde Disu, who was recently promoted to the rank of Assistant Inspector-General of Police. Disu’s appointment marks a new leadership phase for the Nigeria Police Force at a time of heightened national security concerns.
The Presidency reiterated that Egbetokun’s resignation was based solely on personal considerations and urged the public to disregard speculations suggesting political or disciplinary motives behind his departure. Further details are expected in the official statement promised by the Presidency.
