….Urges Creation of State Police
President Bola Tinubu’s decision to retain Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun has stirred intense debate across Nigeria’s political landscape, drawing mixed reactions from opposition leaders and political parties.
Bode George Urges Creation of State Police
Former Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Board of Trustees, Chief Bode George, urged the Federal Government to prioritize the establishment of state police rather than focusing on the reshuffling of service chiefs.
Speaking with PUNCH, George said while the President has the constitutional authority to appoint or retain service chiefs, such moves would not address Nigeria’s long-standing security challenges.
“I don’t know if retaining the IG has ethnic undertones,” George remarked. “The two major problems the British left us are religious and tribal bigotry. Everything we do in this country is seen through those lenses.”
He acknowledged that Tinubu’s recent military reshuffle appeared regionally balanced but suggested that political considerations may have influenced Egbetokun’s retention. According to him, the military’s interference in politics has eroded professionalism in the security system.
“Policing is local,” George added. “We can’t keep pretending that a centralized police force can effectively secure over 200 million peopl
NNPP Questions Tenure Extension
The New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) also expressed dissatisfaction with the President’s decision, questioning why Egbetokun was retained despite reportedly reaching the official retirement age.
NNPP spokesperson, Ladipo Johnson, said:
“The President has replaced other service chiefs, so why retain the IGP? Like other Nigerians, we’re watching.”
ALSO READ: Why I Sacked Chief Of Defence Staff, Others – President Tinubu Speaks After Sack Of Service Chiefs
APGA, YPP Back Tinubu’s Decision
In contrast, the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) and the Young Progressives Party (YPP) commended President Tinubu, describing his decision as one taken in the interest of national security.
APGA’s National Publicity Secretary, Ejimofor Opara, said the President’s access to intelligence reports justifies his confidence in Egbetokun.
YPP’s spokesman, Wale Martins, while supporting the overall reshuffle, maintained that broader reforms were necessary.
“Retaining an IGP who is due for retirement raises concerns about the need for new energy and fresh ideas,” Martins noted. “Those who have been part of the old order may not deliver the transformation Nigerians expect in the security sector.”
Debate Over Police Reforms Deepens
The development has rekindled national conversations about police reform and decentralization, as stakeholders continue to demand structural changes that will enable community-based policing and improved accountability in the security architecture.
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