A recent directive by the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun, countering the Police Service Commission (PSC)’s retirement order, has provoked strong opposition from retired senior officers.
The PSC had ordered officers who have reached either 35 years of service or 60 years of age to retire, but the IGP instructed those affected to “stay action” pending further instructions.
The PSC had based its decision on the Public Service Rule, which mandates retirement under these conditions. The order was issued after a review, aiming to ensure consistency with civil service procedures.
However, the IGP’s wireless communication, dated February 5, 2025, instructed officers affected by the directive to hold off on retirement until further notice, creating confusion and tension within the police force.
In response, several retired officers, including Deputy Inspectors-General (DIGs), Assistant Inspectors-General (AIGs), and Commissioners of Police (CPs), criticized the IGP’s stance, calling it contradictory to the established public service rules.
They argued that the PSC’s directive is in line with established civil service procedures and expressed concerns over the impact on morale, with accusations of nepotism and favoritism being raised.
Some officers who were impacted by the PSC’s directive have now filed lawsuits against the commission, seeking either reinstatement or compensation. The controversy has also led to tensions surrounding the IGP’s own retirement, with some speculating that his decision is politically motivated to delay pressure for his exit.
While the PSC spokesperson, Ikechukwu Ani, clarified that the IGP’s comment did not reject their decision, the divide between the commission and the police hierarchy continues to grow. The outcome of the lawsuits and the public debate on retirement age and tenure for police officers will likely influence future reforms in the force.