The Police Service Commission (PSC) has refuted claims that it ordered the retirement of the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, amid ongoing discussions about his tenure.
Last Friday, the commission directed police officers who have either reached the age of 60 or served for 35 years to proceed on immediate retirement.
This directive fueled speculations regarding Egbetokun’s status, as he turned 60 last year.
Despite earlier clarifications from the police authorities and the Attorney-General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, questions about the IG’s tenure have persisted.
In a statement released on Monday, PSC’s Head of Media, Ikechukwu Ani, emphasized that the directive did not apply to the Inspector-General of Police, stating that the commission lacks the constitutional authority to determine his appointment or retirement.
“The commission has received numerous inquiries regarding the IG’s status following our directive. However, we wish to clarify that the PSC does not have the power to decide on the appointment or exit of the Inspector-General of Police,” Ani said.
He further explained that the commission’s mandate, as outlined in the Nigerian Constitution and the PSC Act, covers the appointment, promotion, and discipline of police officers, excluding the Inspector-General, whose appointment is made by the President based on the recommendation of the Police Council.
“The law is clear on our responsibilities, and they do not extend to the IG. His appointment and tenure are determined solely by the President, in consultation with the Police Council,” Ani added.
The PSC clarified that its recent decision was focused on regularizing the first appointment dates of cadet Assistant Superintendents of Police and Inspector Force entrants, which has no connection to the IG’s position.
Reaffirming its position, the commission stated that it remains committed to working collaboratively with the Inspector-General of Police in the interest of strengthening the Nigeria Police Force.
