Renowned human rights activist and legal scholar, Chidi Odinkalu has criticized Nigeria’s Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, accusing him of disregarding the institution he leads. Odinkalu’s comments came in response to Omoyele Sowore, a publisher and human rights activist, who has repeatedly labeled Egbetokun’s continued tenure as unlawful.
![](https://thenigerialawyer.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/2026-IDRI-Masterclass.png")
“So here you have it…. This is why @YeleSowore called this IGP of @PoliceNG ‘illegal’. Facts are stubborn. Now the #PSC has retired all officers over 60. That will be enforced by an IGP who is over 60. Folks should care about the institutions they lead,” Odinkalu stated in a post on social media.
Egbetokun, who was born on September 4, 1964, is currently 60 years and four months old. His age and tenure have become a focal point of controversy following the Police Service Commission’s (PSC) recent decision to retire senior police officers who are either over 60 years old or have completed 35 years of service.
The PSC made the decision during its first extraordinary meeting on Friday, January 31, 2025. According to a statement by Ikechukwu Ani, the PSC’s Head of Press and Public Relations, the Commission approved the immediate retirement of officers who fall under these categories. The decision was reached under the leadership of PSC Chairman DIG Hashimu Argungu (rtd), with other key stakeholders, including retired Supreme Court Justice Adamu Paul Galumje and DIG Taiwo Lakanu (rtd), in attendance.
Ani explained that the decision aligns with Public Service Rule No. 020908 (i & ii), which mandates retirement after 35 years of service or upon reaching 60 years of age. “The Commission has passionately revisited their decision and has come to the conclusion that the said decision in its intent and purpose contradicted the principle of merger of service in the public service,” the statement read.
The PSC’s directive has been conveyed to the Inspector General of Police for implementation. However, the decision has sparked debate, as Egbetokun himself falls within the category of officers affected by the new retirement policy.
Odinkalu’s criticism highlights the perceived contradiction in enforcing the retirement policy while the IGP, who is over 60, remains in office. “Folks should care about the institutions they lead,” Odinkalu emphasized, suggesting that Egbetokun’s continued tenure undermines the integrity of the police force.
The controversy surrounding Egbetokun’s tenure has been further fueled by the 2020 Police Act, which provides for a four-year term for the IGP. While Section 7 of the Act supports Egbetokun’s tenure, Section 18 aligns with the public service rules requiring retirement at 60 or after 35 years of service.
[A MUST HAVE] Evidence Act Demystified With Recent And Contemporary Cases And Materials
Available now for NGN 40,000 at ASC Publications, 10, Boyle Street, Onikan, Lagos. Beside High Court, TBS. Email publications@ayindesanni.com or WhatsApp +2347056667384. Purchase Link: https://paystack.com/buy/evidence-act-complete-annotation
______________________________________________________________________ “Enhance Legal Practice With Authoritative Reports” — Alexander Payne Offers Comprehensive Law Reports, Spanning Over A Century Of Nigerian Jurisprudence
Interested buyers are encouraged to place their orders and enquiries via:
0704 444 4777, 0704 444 4999, 0818 199 9888
Website: www.alexandernigeria.com
