A total of 4,449 police officers have filed a lawsuit against the Nigeria Police Force and the Inspector-General of Police (IG) at the National Industrial Court in Abuja, accusing them of failing to implement their promotions despite approval by the Police Service Commission (PSC).
The officers claim the IG has refused to carry out the promotion decisions made during the 19th plenary session of the PSC, as outlined in the PSC Act.
The suit demands that the court order the Police Force and the IG to immediately decorate the officers with their new ranks.
At the court session on Tuesday, counsel for the plaintiffs, Muka’ila Mavo, argued that the Nigeria Police Force and the IG were legally bound to adhere to the PSC’s decision on promotions.
Mavo cited Section 6(1)(a) of the Police Service Commission Act and Section 16(3)(a) of the Police Act, emphasizing that these laws grant the PSC the authority over police appointments, promotions, and discipline, excluding the IG.
Mavo also referenced a Supreme Court ruling affirming the PSC’s jurisdiction over promotions and disciplinary matters in the police force.
In response, ACP Isa Garba, representing the Nigeria Police Force, declined to comment on the issue, stating that the Force’s Public Relations Officer would be better suited to address the matter.
Justice R.B. Haastrup adjourned the case to December 18 for further proceedings.
