Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, is battling health challenges linked to a long-standing kidney condition, Alayo Radio TV has learned.
Multiple sources confirmed that Egbetokun has been struggling with the aftermath of a kidney transplant he underwent several years ago while serving as a Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP). The strain of managing the demands of his current role, combined with functioning on a single kidney, is reportedly taking a toll on his health.
Sources reveal that the IGP’s health challenges have significantly altered his work routine. He often arrives at the Force Headquarters around 1 p.m. and leaves early. Additionally, he reportedly works primarily at night from a home-based setup, which includes a makeshift clinic.
Earlier in March, Alayo Radio TV reported exclusively that mounting pressure on President Bola Tinubu to remove Egbetokun amid growing dissatisfaction within the police force had prevented him from embarking on a scheduled trip to the United Kingdom. The trip, intended for an international security conference, was also an opportunity for him to receive medical care abroad.
In a letter dated March 4, 2025, Egbetokun had formally requested President Tinubu’s approval to attend the Government Global Security Event on Home Office Security and Policing 2025 in London from March 11 to 13. The letter cited an invitation from the Deputy Defence Adviser at the British High Commission, describing the event as a crucial platform for enhancing international law enforcement cooperation. He also indicated that Deputy Inspector-General Frank Mba would oversee police operations in his absence.
However, President Tinubu reportedly denied the request, citing political sensitivities and the ongoing controversies surrounding Egbetokun’s leadership.
A source said:
“The IGP is battling kidney issues. As we reported earlier, he had a transplant when he was a CSP. He’s now working mostly at night, from a makeshift clinic at his home.”
The political tension surrounding Egbetokun’s position intensified following reports that Deputy Inspector-General Idegwu Basil Okuoma, formerly AIG Zone 14, Katsina, is being considered as a potential replacement.
Sources within the force revealed that the recent forced retirement of senior officers has further eroded confidence in Egbetokun’s leadership. He has faced accusations of discrimination and defying court orders that directed the reinstatement of officers prematurely retired before completing their 35 years of service or mandatory retirement age.
The situation worsened in January 2025 when Egbetokun ordered an investigation into senior officers accused of falsifying their service records to extend their tenure. Critics argue that he delayed the probe until after securing his own tenure extension, raising questions about fairness and transparency.
A top government source told Alayo Radio TV:
“Tinubu is under immense pressure to replace Egbetokun, and this has left him panicking. His health challenges, combined with the leadership crisis, have affected his performance. His request to travel to the UK was denied by the President, who saw it as inappropriate to seek medical treatment abroad at this time.”
As the controversy continues, the IGP’s health condition and the leadership struggles within the Nigerian Police Force remain a critical issue. Observers are closely watching the developments, especially as confidence in Egbetokun’s leadership dwindles.
Stay tuned for updates.