Retired officers fault IGP Egbetokun’s order halting PSC retirement directive

The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has come under criticism from senior retired officers after countering the Police Service Commission’s (PSC) directive mandating officers who have served for 35 years or reached 60 years of age to proceed on retirement.

In a wireless message dated February 5, 2025, the IGP directed affected officers to disregard the PSC order and await further instructions. This move has sparked backlash, with retired Deputy Inspectors General (DIGs), Assistant Inspectors General (AIGs), and Commissioners of Police (CPs) insisting that the PSC’s directive aligns with public service rules.

While PSC spokesman Ikechukwu Ani clarified that the IGP’s stance does not outrightly reject the commission’s decision, some retired officers believe the IGP’s move is an attempt at self-preservation. A retired AIG argued that past officers exited quietly without resistance and accused those affected of seeking to prolong their stay despite benefiting from accelerated promotions.

A retired DIG also stated that the IGP has no authority to override the PSC on retirement matters, suggesting that political interests may be influencing the decision. Similarly, a retired CP from the North warned that the counter-order could demoralize officers and exacerbate nepotism within the force.

Meanwhile, some affected officers have taken legal action against the PSC, with at least three AIGs and a CP challenging the directive in court. Others who retired after 35 years but had not reached 60 years are demanding reinstatement or compensation.

The controversy deepens as reports suggest that calls for Egbetokun’s retirement are growing, given that the PSC’s directive, if enforced, could also affect him. The ongoing legal battle is expected to heighten tensions between the PSC and the police hierarchy in the coming weeks.