Real reasons Tinubu sacked ex-IG Egbetokun
President Bola Tinubu dismissed former Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun primarily over his resistance to withdrawing police officers from VIP protection duties.
President Bola Tinubu dismissed Kayode Egbetokun from his position as Inspector-General of Police in Nigeria due to Egbetokun's reported opposition to a key directive issued by the President. The directive mandated the withdrawal of police officers assigned to provide protection for Very Important Personalities. Sources close to the situation revealed that Egbetokun’s resignation was also prompted by his alleged reluctance to support the concept of state policing, along with reports of vindictive behavior towards his colleagues within the police force. While Egbetokun officially cited family issues as the reason for his resignation, insiders indicated that he was effectively compelled to step down following a summoning by the President to the Presidential Villa.
The circumstances leading to Egbetokun's dismissal highlight a significant rift between the Inspector-General and the current administration’s vision for policing in Nigeria. This incident raises questions about the future of police operations and the extent to which federal directives will reshape the responsibilities and conduct of law enforcement in the country. The call for a shift towards state policing indicates a broader conversation about decentralizing police authority, a change that has met with mixed reactions across various sectors. Egbetokun’s removal could signal to other police officials the urgency of aligning with the President’s agenda, particularly regarding the balance of security responsibilities between federal and state levels.
Such administrative changes often imply deeper political maneuverings, especially within the context of Nigeria's security challenges. With ongoing discussions about the need for police reforms and the effectiveness of current policing strategies, Egbetokun's departure opens up further dialogue regarding leadership in the police force and how it responds to commands from the presidency. His resignation may also lead to broader implications regarding the trust and morale of the police workforce, as well as the operational dynamics of state and federal law enforcement in Nigeria, influencing both public safety and governance in the nation.