Nigeria Police: Senior Cops Rebel, Insist IGP Egbetokun Must Step Down

Nigeria Police: Senior Cops Rebel, Insist IGP Egbetokun Must Step Down

The ongoing turmoil within the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has intensified as senior officers eligible for retirement refuse to step down, insisting that Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun must also vacate his position…….READ MORE 

These officers, having reached the mandatory retirement age of 60 or completed 35 years of service, are defying the Police Service Commission’s (PSC) directive, citing a pending case at the National Industrial Court of Nigeria.

Despite claims from the PSC that no officers are disregarding the retirement order, some senior personnel, speaking anonymously, expressed frustration. They argue that if the IGP’s tenure could be extended, they too should be allowed to remain in service. While their lawsuit doesn’t directly challenge Egbetokun’s extension, it targets the PSC’s directive compelling them to retire.

Earlier this month, the PSC mandated the retirement of all officers exceeding the service threshold, referencing Public Service Rule No. 020908. However, the police headquarters countered this order on February 5, 2025, instructing the officers to remain in their positions pending further notice.

In response to the ongoing defiance, IGP Egbetokun has formed a disciplinary committee to compile the names of non-compliant officers for further action. The committee has summoned several top-ranking officials, including an Assistant Inspector-General of Police, two Commissioners of Police, and a senior legal officer, to appear in uniform for hearings.

Meanwhile, the National Industrial Court has adjourned the case to March 18. The plaintiffs argue that their service years are being miscalculated, contending that time should be counted from their admission into the Police Academy rather than their entry into the force.

Retired Assistant Inspector-General Wilson Inalegwu has urged the defiant officers to retire honorably, emphasizing the PSC’s authority over appointments and retirements, excluding the politically appointed IGP, whose position is at the President’s discretion.

The standoff underscores deepening tensions within the NPF, with senior officers challenging the authority of the PSC while raising questions about leadership consistency at the top.