The Nigerian Senate has passed a Bill to Amend the Police Act to allow a person appointed to 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 Bill also Provides the procedure for which the IGP can be removed if defaulting in his duties.
The Bill expressly passed First, Second and Third Reading following the suspension of the Senate’s standing rule 78(1).
Leading the Debate on the general principles of the bill aimed at amending the Nigeria Police Act 2020.
The Bill among other things seeks to provide clarity and stability in the leadership of the Nigerian police force, strengthen the and enhance productivity of the service.
As part of amendments to the Act , the Bill will ensure that a person appointed as inspector General of Police serves full term without abruption as stipulated in his appointment letter irrespective of retirement age.
However some lawmakers were opposed to clause expressing concerns that this may lead to abuse within the force.
But the Senate clarifies that the Bill already makes provisions for procedures to unseat the IGP if found to have failed in the discharge of his duties.
If passed into law, the current Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun will be the chief beneficiary.
Mr Egbetokun who was appointed by President Bola Tinubu in 2023 is expected to retire from the Nigeria Police Force on September 4, 2024.
