Nigeria’s Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has resigned from office, bringing his tenure to an end amid official claims that the decision was informed by personal family considerations.
Confirmation of his exit came from the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, who addressed journalists on Tuesday.
He disclosed that the former police chief submitted a formal resignation letter earlier in the day.
“The Inspector-General resigned in a letter today, citing family issues that require his full attention,” Onanuga stated.
Despite the official explanation, sources within the Presidential Villa suggested that the development followed a meeting with President Bola Tinubu on Monday evening.
A senior official familiar with the discussions revealed that Egbetokun was summoned to the State House, where the issue of his continued stay in office was addressed.
“He was invited to the Villa, and it was during that meeting that he was told to step down,” the source said, requesting anonymity because of the sensitivity of the matter.
Observers reported that the former IGP arrived at the Presidential Villa early Monday evening, coinciding with the arrival of several governors for a separate presidential engagement.
His presence initially sparked speculation about the purpose of his visit.
Another source within the Villa dismissed suggestions that the visit was routine.
“He was specifically called in. It wasn’t a scheduled or ceremonial visit,” the official explained.
Security officials also confirmed that Egbetokun returned to the State House later that night, undergoing standard security screening before gaining entry.
Appointed in June 2023, Egbetokun had recently come under increasing public scrutiny over persistent security challenges nationwide, including incidents of kidnapping, banditry, and violent attacks across several states.
Speaking during a meeting with state governors on Monday, President Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to strengthen the country’s security framework and push forward discussions on state policing.
“Security remains the foundation of national prosperity. Without it, economic growth and public safety cannot be guaranteed,” the President said.
Before his elevation to the position of Inspector-General, Egbetokun served as Deputy Inspector-General of Police in charge of the Force Criminal Investigation Department.
