A fresh controversy has erupted between the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, and the Police Service Commission (PSC) over the mandatory retirement of officers who have served 35 years or reached the age of 60.
The PSC had recently directed all affected officers to proceed on immediate retirement, citing Public Service Rule No. 020908 (i & ii), which mandates retirement after 35 years of service or upon turning 60. However, in a counter-directive, the IGP issued a wireless message through the Force Secretary on February 5, 2025, instructing all affected officers to “stay action pending further directive.”
This clash has sparked an uproar among senior retired police officers, including former Deputy Inspectors General (DIGs), Assistant Inspectors General (AIGs), and Commissioners of Police (CPs), who insist that the PSC’s directive aligns with civil service regulations and must be upheld.
Reacting to the IGP’s move, a retired AIG, who spoke to Vanguard on condition of anonymity, condemned the development, stating:
> “It’s unfortunate that the Force finds itself in such an awkward situation. Those caught up in this mess should have been allowed to exit quietly, just like in the military, where officers retire without unnecessary drama.”
He further criticized officers resisting the directive, saying:
> “Most of these Force entrants were promoted over their peers, who worked tirelessly in the field while they pursued academic qualifications—often without approval. Now they want to stay put, citing ‘fresh appointments.’ The Public Service Rules are clear on this matter.”
Similarly, a retired DIG, who also preferred anonymity, dismissed the IGP’s counter-order, asserting:
> “The IGP has no authority to override the PSC on retirement matters. What we are hearing is that vested political interests from above are trying to shift the goalpost. But in the end, the institution will bear the brunt.”
Amid the controversy, PSC spokesperson Ikechukwu Ani maintained that the commission’s directive remains valid, though he downplayed any major conflict with the IGP’s stance.
> “I saw the IGP’s message. He asked the affected officers to hold on for further directives, and I don’t think that contradicts our decision. Perhaps he has certain procedures to put in place,” Ani said.
Despite the assurances, some affected officers have dragged the PSC to court, seeking legal intervention to halt their forced retirement.
Observers speculate that the IGP’s reluctance to enforce the PSC’s directive might be linked to self-preservation. A retired AIG noted that if the affected officers leave, pressure could mount for Egbetokun himself to step aside, as he may also be approaching the retirement threshold.
With the battle lines drawn between the PSC and the IGP, the question remains: Will due process prevail, or will political maneuvering dictate the outcome of this latest power struggle within the Nigerian Police Force?
PIONEER NEWS 