Reps pass Police Act Amendment Bill

The House of Representatives, on Tuesday, approved the Police Act Amendment Bill to allow the occupant of the Office of the Inspector General of Police to remain in office until the end of the term stipulated in the letter of appointment.

The House’s decision followed the consideration and approval of President Bola Tinubu’s request, seeking an amendment to the Principal Act to reflect on the tenure of the IGP.

The proposed legislation to amend the Nigeria Police Act 2020 seeks to guarantee the tenure of the IGP and enhance police operations by promoting accountability, modernising policing methods, and fostering a more harmonious relationship between the police and the community.

When the executive bill was read on the floor of the House on Tuesday, lawmakers voted unanimously to pass it expeditiously.

The Senate similarly passed it during its sitting on Tuesday.

Recall that earlier in July, police authorities denied allegations that the incumbent IGP, Kayode Egbetokun, made moves to influence the National Assembly to pass a bill seeking to raise the retirement age of officers.

The President appointed Egbetokun as the IGP in June 2023, and he is expected to stay in office for four years. He was appointed alongside four new service chiefs.

In compliance with Section 18(8) of the Police Act 2020, Egbetokun, who was born on September 4, 1964, is expected to retire in September 2024 at the age of 60.

A copy of the bill obtained by our correspondent showed that Section 18 of the Principal Act is amended by the addition of a new Sub-Section (8A).

It reads, “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.”