In a decisive move aimed at reinforcing discipline and curbing undue political influence, the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has ordered that all Aide-De-Camps (ADCs) assigned to state governors must not hold a rank higher than Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP).
The directive, issued via a Police Wireless Message dated March 10, 2025, and signed by the Force Secretary, mandates immediate compliance across all commands, units, and departments. The memo, titled “CB:4001/FS/FHQ/ABJ/V.12/421 Order and Directives,” expresses concern that some ADCs have remained in their roles despite being promoted beyond the designated rank.
The police high command has raised concerns over ADCs continuing in their roles after surpassing the DSP rank, a situation believed to have led to favoritism, undue influence of governors over police operations, and potential breaches of discipline within the force.
The directive, obtained by SaharaReporters on Thursday, reads:
> “The Inspector General of Police (IGP) has observed with dismay that Aide-De-Camp (ADC) officers assigned to governors continue to serve in their positions even after being promoted beyond the designated rank.
“Henceforth, all officers posted as ADCs to executive governors must not exceed the rank of Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP). State Commissioners of Police (COMPOLS) are to ensure strict compliance. This directive must be treated as highly important.”
Traditionally, an Aide-De-Camp (ADC) is a senior police officer assigned as a personal assistant and security detail to high-ranking officials, including state governors. However, some ADCs, despite climbing the ranks, have retained their posts—raising concerns that governors may be using their ADCs’ extended tenure to wield greater influence over police operations in their states.
The IGP’s move is widely seen as an effort to prevent undue political interference, reinforce police command hierarchy, and ensure that promotions do not disrupt operational postings. By restricting ADCs to DSP rank or lower, the police authorities are signaling a renewed commitment to professionalism, hierarchy, and discipline within the force.
This directive, if strictly enforced, could shake up existing power dynamics between governors and their ADCs, potentially leading to a broader restructuring of police postings across the country.
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