Egbetokun's tenure extension has sparked significant controversy, leading to legal action against activist Sowore, who publicly criticised the extension.

Kayode Egbetokun, the Inspector General of Police, has issued a threat to human rights activist Omoyele Sowore and others who have voiced criticism of his tenure extension by the National Assembly.

Speaking at an event on Wednesday, Egbetokun described his critics as “enemies of Nigeria.”

He said, “Do not be distracted by the false narratives being peddled by enemies of Nigeria. Some of whom hide under the cloak of act of activism to distort our work and demoralise our officers.

“Those who profit from instability and crisis would not relent in their efforts to instigate chaos. But I assure you, their cup will be full one day.”

“One duty, our duty is to remain focused, courageous, and professional,” he added.

Egbetokun's tenure extension has sparked significant controversy, leading to legal action against activist Sowore, who publicly criticised the extension.

WATCH: @PoliceNG IG Egbetokun Threatens @YeleSowore, Other Activists Fighting Against His Illegal Tenure Extension pic.twitter.com/uLfdEDB76b

— Sahara Reporters (@SaharaReporters) June 4, 2025

Controversial Tenure Extension

In 2024, the Nigerian National Assembly amended the Police Act to allow the IGP to serve a fixed four-year term, regardless of age or years of service.

This amendment enabled Egbetokun, appointed on October 31, 2023, to remain in office until 2027, despite reaching the mandatory retirement age of 60 in September 2024.

Critics, including civil society organisations, legal experts, and Sowore argued that the amendment was politically motivated and could erode public trust in the police force.

Sowore, a former presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC), subsequently labelled Egbetokun as an "illegal IGP" on social media, challenging the legality of his extended tenure.

In response, the police filed 17 counts of cybercrime charges against Sowore, accusing him of making false statements intended to incite public disorder.

Sowore was detained after honouring a police invitation related to a separate matter. He was later arraigned at the Federal High Court in Abuja, where he pleaded not guilty to all charges. The court granted him bail set at ₦10 million.

Legal experts have questioned the propriety of the charges against Sowore, noting that the Police Act prohibits officers from initiating legal proceedings related to their official duties without prior government approval.

Additionally, the charges contained errors, such as misspelling Sowore's name and misusing legal terms, which further fuelled public skepticism.

Following his release, Sowore joined protests demanding Egbetokun's resignation, highlighting ongoing tensions between the activist and the police leadership.