The race to succeed Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun has intensified as his retirement draws near.
Egbetokun, appointed on June 19, last year, is due to bow out of service on September 4 when he will turn 60.
However, there is uncertainty over whether he will go on that date or enjoy an extension of stay in line with the amendment to the Police Act.
The amendment, an Executive Bill, passed by the two chambers of the National Assembly on July 31, allows the President to extend the tenure of an IG beyond 35 years in service or 60 years of age, depending on which one comes earlier, to enable the sitting IG to spend his full four-year tenure.
The passed bill is, however, yet to be signed by the President to become an act.
This hazy situation has created tension in the high command of the police with some officers from Commissioners of Police (CPs), Assistant Inspectors-General (AIGs) and Deputy Inspectors-General (DIGs) cadres, lobbying intensely for the IG’s position.
Some sources in the police said not signing the amendment to the Police Act by the President, will make it impossible for Egbetokun to continue in office.
Others said there is still time between now and September for the President to sign the amendment in which case it will become law and the IG might benefit from it, should the President extend his tenure.
Yet, others said should the President sign the amendment and it becomes law, it ought not to take a retroactive effect, which means Egbetokun should not benefit from it.
