“I Feel Like a Tiger Ready to Chase Away Criminals” – New IGP Egbetokun Says After Being Decorated

Kayode Egbetokun, the newly decorated acting Inspector-General of Police, has expressed his determination to combat criminals, likening himself to a tiger poised to pounce.

Vice President Kashim Shettima conducted a brief ceremony at his office in the Presidential Villa, Abuja, where Egbetokun’s spouse, Mrs. Egbetokun, also participated.

Dignitaries in attendance included Senator George Akume, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Governor Hope Uzodinma of Imo State, Hon Femi Gbajabiamila, the Chief of Staff to the President, Nuhu Ribadu, the National Security Adviser (NSA), and outgoing Inspector-General of Police, Alkali Baba.

Following his decoration, the acting IGP enthusiastically expressed his readiness to assume his new role.

When asked about his emotions regarding the added responsibility, he responded, “Now, I have just been decorated, and I am looking forward to taking over tomorrow morning at 11 am. I cannot fully describe my current state, but I can tell you that I feel like a ferocious tiger, prepared to chase away all criminals in Nigeria. At other times, I feel like a powerful lion, ready to eradicate internal adversaries of Nigeria. That’s how I feel right now.”

Former IGP Alkali Baba emphasised the importance of passing the torch to his successor, affirming his confidence in Egbetokun’s ability to continue where he left off.

He stated, “It’s a cycle where you come, work, and then depart. I am pleased to hand over to someone whom I know will lead the police force with the same dedication. We have grown together throughout our careers. I had the privilege of being his superior during my time as IG. He has served under me twice, and I am well aware of his capability to advance the cause of the police force from where I left off.”