Guaranteeing The Tenure Of The IGP; A Right Step In The Right Direction, by Adewole Kehinde

“Positive attitude plus effort equals performance.” – Tommy Tuberville

There have been many misunderstandings and arguments against the Nigeria Police Act, especially about the Inspector General of Police’s term of office.

On Tuesday, July 23, 2024, the National Assembly passed the Police Act Amendment Bill to enable a person appointed to the office of Inspector General of Police to remain in office until the end of the term stipulated in the letter of appointment.

The passage was after President Bola Tinubu forwarded the bill to the House of Representatives and Senate on Tuesday to amend the tenure of the IGP.

I recall that in June 2023, President Bola Tinubu appointed Egbetokun as the Inspector General of Police for four years.

There have been several arguments on Section 7(6) of the 2020 Police Act which states that the IGP shall serve a tenure of four years.

“The person appointed to the office of the Inspector-General of Police shall hold office for four years,” the section reads.

However, the bill proposes to create a new section 18(8A) to enable the IGP to stay longer than 35 years in service and 60 years of age, whichever comes first.

“Notwithstanding the provisions of sub-section (8) of this section, any person appointed to the office of Inspector-General of Police shall remain in office until the end of the term stipulated in the letter of appointment in line with the provisions of Section 7(6) of this Act,” the bill reads.

In my opinion, this change aims to provide more stability and continuity in the leadership of the Nigeria police.

It will also help revolutionize police operations by enhancing accountability, modernizing policing methods, and fostering a more harmonious relationship between the police and the community.

The passage of the Police Act Amendment Bill 2024 marks a significant shift in the governance of Nigeria’s police force, reflecting the administration’s commitment to reforming and strengthening the country’s law enforcement agencies.

The majority have been asking me about the benefits of the four-year tenure to the Nigeria Police. There are many benefits, such as continuity and stability. With longer tenure, the IGP will have more time to understand the Force’s mission, leading to greater continuity and stability in leadership.

It will also allow the Inspector General of Police to gain more experience and expertise in his roles, which can result in better decision-making and improved performance.

The four-year tenure will enable the IGP to engage in long-term planning and strategic thinking, which will be beneficial for the Force’s growth and sustainability.

It will also help build confidence and trust among personnel, as they see consistent leadership and a commitment to the Force’s mission and values.

The four-year tenure will contribute to force effectiveness, personnel engagement, and long-term success.

On a final note, it will also ensure maintaining operational continuity and effectiveness, especially in the face of evolving security threats across the country.

Adewole Kehinde is the Publisher of Swift Reporters. 08166240846. kennyadewole@gmail.com