Alexis Uchendu
The ongoing retirement crisis in the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), has taken a legal dimension, as senior officers affected by the Police Service Commission’s (PSC), directive have challenged their compulsory exit in court.
More than a week after the PSC ordered the retirement of officers who have reached 60 years of age or served for 35 years, some of them remain in service, citing inconsistencies in the enforcement of retirement rules.
Speaking with Daily Trust, some affected officers argued that they would not have considered legal action if the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, had not been granted an extended tenure.
“If the IGP’s position follows a different rule, why should our case be different?” one officer questioned.
Meanwhile, the PSC maintains that it has not received any formal report of non-compliance.
The commission insists that its directive aligns with the Public Service Rule, which mandates compulsory retirement upon reaching the stipulated age or years of service.
In a related development, the Force Headquarters has reportedly compiled names of affected officers and set up a disciplinary committee to address the issue.
While the National Industrial Court has adjourned the officers’ lawsuit to March 18, civil society organizations have urged both the PSC and the police leadership to uphold the rule of law and ensure smooth transitions within the force.
