Police IGP Egbetokun Reportedly Battling Kidney Condition Amid Mounting Leadership Pressure

Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, is reportedly facing serious health issues stemming from a kidney condition, raising concerns about his ability to manage the demands of his office effectively.

Sources familiar with the situation disclosed that the IGP has been dealing with complications from a kidney transplant he underwent years ago while still a Chief Superintendent. Now operating with one kidney, the strain of his current role is said to be affecting both his health and work schedule.

Egbetokun is reported to keep limited hours at the Force Headquarters, typically arriving around 1 p.m. and leaving earlier than usual. He is said to carry out most of his duties during the night from a home-based setup, which includes a private medical facility.

Earlier in March, Egbetokun had sought presidential approval to attend an international security conference in London—an event also intended to serve as an opportunity for medical consultation. However, President Tinubu reportedly declined the request due to political concerns and growing calls within the police hierarchy for leadership change. Reports indicate that Deputy Inspector-General of Police, Idegwu Basil Okuoma, is being considered as a potential replacement.

Egbetokun’s leadership has recently come under scrutiny, particularly after the forced retirement of several senior officers despite court rulings in their favor. His decision to delay investigations into alleged falsification of service records until after extending his own tenure has also attracted criticism, with some alleging selective enforcement and bias. Amid health struggles and dwindling internal support, Egbetokun’s continued stay as Nigeria’s police chief appears increasingly uncertain.