The Presidency has confirmed the resignation of Kayode Egbetokun as Inspector-General of Police (IGP), stating that the former police chief stepped down to attend to pressing family matters.
According to the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Egbetokun formally submitted a resignation letter, explaining that family concerns now require his undivided attention.
“The IGP resigned in a letter today, citing family issues which require his undivided attention,” Onanuga said in response to media inquiries.
Villa Meeting Preceded Exit
However, multiple sources within the Presidency indicated that the resignation followed a closed-door meeting between Egbetokun and President Bola Tinubu at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, on Monday evening.
According to a senior official familiar with the development, the former police chief was asked to step aside during the meeting. The source spoke on condition of anonymity due to the sensitivity of the matter.
Observers at the State House reported that Egbetokun arrived at the Villa around 6:40 p.m. in his official vehicle, a Toyota Land Cruiser bearing number plate NPF-01. He was later seen returning to the Villa at about 8:00 p.m., amid heightened security checks by DSS operatives.
His presence coincided with the arrival of several state governors for an interfaith Iftar hosted by President Tinubu, initially fueling speculation about the purpose of his visit. Presidency sources, however, confirmed he had been specifically summoned by the President.
Security Challenges in Focus
Egbetokun, who was appointed IGP on June 19, 2023, assumed office amid persistent security challenges, including widespread kidnappings, banditry, and terrorist attacks across several states.
Recent high-profile incidents — such as the abduction of nearly 300 schoolchildren in Niger State, reported killings in Kwara communities, and repeated kidnappings along major highways — intensified public scrutiny of the police leadership and broader security architecture.
During Monday’s Iftar with governors, President Tinubu reiterated his administration’s commitment to strengthening internal security, including plans to establish state police structures.
“Security is the foundation of prosperity. Without it, farms cannot flourish, businesses cannot grow, and families cannot sleep in peace,” the President said, pledging that the state police initiative would not be delayed.
Career Background
Before he was appointed IGP, Egbetokun served as Deputy Inspector-General of Police in charge of the Force Criminal Investigations Department. He succeeded Usman Alkali Baba, whose tenure ended in September 2023 following an extension granted by former President Muhammadu Buhari.
While the Presidency maintains that Egbetokun’s exit was voluntary and family-driven, the development marks a significant leadership change at a time when national security remains at the forefront of public discourse.
