The Police Service Commission (PSC) has directed the immediate retirement of all senior police officers who have exceeded 35 years in service or are above the age of 60.
This decision follows the controversy surrounding the tenure of Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun, who recently clocked 60 years. While the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) and the Attorney General of the Federation have insisted that his continued stay in office is lawful, the PSC’s ruling suggests a strict adherence to retirement regulations.
PSC’s Official Statement on the Directive
In a statement issued on Friday, the PSC’s Head of Press and Public Relations, Ikechukwu Ani, confirmed the Commission’s ruling after its first extraordinary meeting for 2025.
"The Police Service Commission rose from its first extraordinary meeting with the approval for the immediate retirement of senior Police Officers who have spent more than 35 years in service and those above 60 years of age," the statement read.
The Commission referenced Public Service Rule No 020908 (i & ii), which mandates retirement after 35 years of service or upon reaching 60 years of age.
According to the PSC, its previous 2017 decision—which aligned officers' appointment dates with their enlistment in the force—was revisited and found to contradict public service regulations. The Commission, therefore, resolved to strictly enforce retirement rules moving forward.
Implementation and Leadership Involvement
The decision was reached at an extraordinary meeting of the PSC’s 6th Management Board held on Friday, January 31, 2025. The session was presided over by PSC Chairman, DIG Hashimu Argungu (Rtd.), with participation from:
- Justice Adamu Paul Galumje (Rtd.), Commissioner representing the Judiciary
- DIG Taiwo Lakanu (Rtd.), Commissioner representing the Police
- Chief Onyemuchi Nnamani, Secretary to the Commission
The Inspector General of Police (IGP) has been formally notified to commence the immediate implementation of the directive.
Implications for the Police Leadership
This ruling could have significant implications for the current leadership structure of the Nigeria Police Force, including IGP Kayode Egbetokun’s tenure. While legal and political debates continue over whether an executive order can override statutory retirement laws, the PSC’s decision reinforces public service regulations on tenure limitations.
All eyes are now on the IGP’s response and whether the directive will be enforced without exceptions—especially in light of ongoing disputes about tenure extensions in public offices.
