Breaking: Appeal Court Slams Nigeria Police, Orders ACP’s Swift Reinstatement!

The Abuja Division of the Court of Appeal has ruled in favour of Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) James Idachaba, ordering his immediate reinstatement and describing his compulsory retirement as unlawful and unconstitutional.

According to iReporter Online, the decision was handed down on July 11, 2025, by a three-member panel of justices led by Justice Haruna Tsammani. The appellate court found that the Nigeria Police Force and the Police Service Commission (PSC) violated Idachaba’s constitutional rights by retiring him without due process or fair hearing.

The ruling overturned an earlier judgment by the National Industrial Court, which had backed Idachaba’s dismissal. The Appeal Court faulted the lower court’s position, stressing that the process leading to his removal lacked procedural integrity and legal merit.

According to iReporter Online, Justice Tsammani emphasized in the lead judgment that Idachaba’s removal failed to follow established legal protocols. The court awarded ₦2 million in damages against the PSC and the Nigeria Police, and further directed them to pay all outstanding salaries and entitlements owed since his forced retirement in January 2022.

Idachaba, who was removed from service after internal complaints surfaced within the force, had consistently argued that he was never afforded the opportunity to defend himself. His legal victory marks a significant moment for accountability in law enforcement procedures.

According to iReporter Online, the court’s ruling has been hailed by legal analysts as a victory for due process and constitutional justice within the Nigerian public service system.

”IREPORTER REPORTS”