According to multiple sources, several state commands were denied administrative and operational allocations for up to six or seven months during Egbetokun’s tenure, despite funds being made available to strengthen policing nationwide. The alleged lapse reportedly affected response capacity amid rising incidents of kidnappings and attacks in states including Kaduna, Niger, Kwara, Zamfara, Kebbi and Adamawa.
A source said the President had repeatedly released funds to improve rapid response to insecurity and enhance officers’ welfare, following assurances from the then IGP that operational challenges would be addressed. However, fresh attacks reportedly continued days after such commitments, prompting the Presidency to discreetly seek explanations from state Commissioners of Police.
It was during those inquiries, sources claimed, that it was discovered some commands had not received monthly allocations for months. The development allegedly angered the President, who subsequently summoned Egbetokun and directed him to proceed on retirement. The Presidency had earlier attributed his exit to family reasons.
Another issue said to have displeased the President was the removal of then Assistant Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu, from the Special Protection Force Unit (SPFU). Disu was overseeing the unit when the President ordered the withdrawal of police personnel from VIP protection. Although he reportedly initiated steps to implement the directive, a senior officer allegedly blocked the process.
Sources said Egbetokun later redeployed Disu from SPFU and replaced him with a coursemate. After the matter reached the President, Disu was returned to the unit, while his replacement was placed on administrative leave. However, Disu was subsequently moved to the FCID Annex in Lagos — a decision some insiders interpreted as defiance of presidential preference.
Allegations of irregular special promotions also surfaced. Sources claimed that certain officers received accelerated promotions without meeting examination or experience requirements, while others with requisite qualifications were overlooked. The development, insiders said, dampened morale within the Force.
Attention has now shifted to Acting IGP Disu, who was appointed last Tuesday following Egbetokun’s retirement. Some of the 39 officers reportedly senior to him, including Deputy Inspectors-General and Assistant Inspectors-General, are said to be lobbying to retain their positions pending confirmation of his appointment.
Egbetokun, appointed the 22nd IGP on June 19, 2023, succeeded Alkali Baba. Disu, a Lagos Island native who joined the Force in 1992, holds degrees from Lagos State University and is expected to be confirmed in line with the Police Act 2020 after deliberations by the Police Council.
