By Sampson Uhuegbu
The Presidency has confirmed that Kayode Egbetokun has resigned as Inspector-General of Police (IGP), citing personal reasons.
According to the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Egbetokun submitted his resignation letter on Tuesday, stating that pressing family matters required his full attention.
However, multiple sources within the Presidential Villa disclosed that the former police chief was asked to step down during a meeting with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Monday evening at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.
A senior Presidency official, who spoke anonymously due to the sensitivity of the issue, said, “It was in that meeting he was asked to go.”
Reports indicate that Egbetokun’s official vehicle, a Toyota Land Cruiser with the number plate NPF-01, was seen at the Presidential Villa around 6:40 p.m. on Monday. Dressed in his black uniform without a cap, he reportedly requested his notepad from an aide before proceeding inside.
His arrival coincided with that of several state governors who were attending an interfaith Iftar with President Tinubu, initially causing speculation about the purpose of his visit. However, another source within the Villa clarified that the IGP had been specifically summoned, stating, “He was called in. It wasn’t a routine visit.”
Security officials further revealed that Egbetokun returned to the State House around 8:00 p.m., and his vehicle underwent routine screening by operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS).
Egbetokun, who was appointed IGP on June 19, 2023, faced mounting criticism over the country’s deteriorating security situation during his tenure. Nigeria witnessed a surge in kidnapping, banditry, and terrorist attacks across several states.
Among notable incidents were the abduction of nearly 300 schoolchildren from St. Mary’s Boarding School in Niger State in November 2025, mass killings in parts of Kwara State in February 2026, and persistent kidnappings along major highways nationwide.
During Monday’s Iftar meeting with governors, President Tinubu reiterated his administration’s commitment to establishing state police as part of efforts to address insecurity. He emphasized that security remains fundamental to national prosperity.
“Security is the foundation of prosperity. Without it, farms cannot flourish, businesses cannot grow, and families cannot sleep in peace. We will establish state police to curb insecurity,” the President stated.
Before becoming IGP, Egbetokun served as Deputy Inspector-General of Police in charge of the Force Criminal Investigations Department. He succeeded Usman Alkali Baba, whose tenure expired in September 2023 following an extension granted by former President Muhammadu Buhari.
