Human rights activist Omoyele Sowore took to the Nigeria Police Force Headquarters in Abuja on Wednesday, demanding the immediate removal of Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun. Sowore led a group of protesters, accusing Egbetokun of staying in office illegally after his mandatory retirement in September 2024.
The protesters carried banners showing Egbetokun wearing President Tinubu’s signature cap with his face crossed out in red. They chanted for his removal, arguing that Egbetokun’s continued stay violated Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution, which requires public servants to retire after 35 years of service or at age 60. He pointed out that while Egbetokun had overseen retirements of other high-ranking officers, he had not stepped down himself.
Sowore also linked the country’s worsening security to Egbetokun’s leadership, questioning the police’s ability to handle critical situations. He demanded that the IGP leave office immediately and return all salaries earned since his retirement date.