A recent directive by Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun to suspend the retirement of officers who have served for 35 years or reached 60 years of age has ignited significant debate within Nigeria’s police force. The move directly contradicts the Police Service Commission’s (PSC) directive, which mandated the immediate retirement of affected officers in accordance with Public Service Rule No. 020908 (i & ii).
The situation escalated following a wireless message issued from the Force Secretary’s office on February 5, 2025. The message instructed affected officers to ignore the PSC’s directive and await further instructions from the IGP’s office.
PSC Denies Rift with IGP Over Retirement Directive
Despite the apparent conflict, the PSC has denied that the IGP’s directive undermines its authority. The commission’s spokesperson, Ikechukwu Ani, clarified that the IGP may have called for a temporary hold to address logistical concerns but had not rejected the commission’s decision.
“We have communicated this matter to the IGP, and while his directive suggests that further instructions will follow, it does not outrightly contradict the PSC’s position,” Ani stated.
Retired Senior Officers Condemn IGP’s Directive
However, retired senior police officers, including former Deputy Inspectors General of Police (DIGs), Assistant Inspectors General (AIGs), and Commissioners of Police (CPs), have strongly opposed the IGP’s stance.
A retired AIG, speaking anonymously, criticized the directive, stating that police officers have always retired upon completing 35 years of service or reaching 60 years of age.
“It’s unfortunate that we keep encountering these situations in the force. The military adheres to retirement policies without controversy, so why is the police force different?” he questioned.
Another retired DIG argued that the IGP lacks the authority to override the PSC on retirement matters. He hinted that political interests may be influencing the delay in enforcing the directive.
“We hear that vested interests are attempting to alter the rules for political reasons, and unfortunately, this affects the integrity of the institution,” he said.
IGP’s Directive Could Undermine Morale
A retired Commissioner of Police (CP) from the northern region warned that the delay in enforcing retirements could demoralize officers, especially those awaiting promotions.
“This situation is not good for the force. It creates room for favoritism and nepotism, which weakens discipline within the ranks,” he lamented.
A retired AIG from the South-West echoed similar concerns, noting that manipulations in the system only deepen divisions and hinder police effectiveness.
“In our days, even with limited resources, we tried to ensure professionalism. However, when favoritism influences decisions at the highest levels, the force suffers,” he remarked.
Legal Battle Looms as Affected Officers Challenge Retirement Order
Amid the controversy, some affected senior officers—including three Assistant Inspectors General (AIGs) and a Commissioner of Police (CP)—have filed a lawsuit against the PSC, challenging the directive.
A senior officer involved in the legal battle explained:
“This issue is gaining traction because even the IGP himself may be affected. If the rule is enforced, pressure for him to step down will likely increase.”
Unclear Legal Provisions and Future Implications
Adding further complexity, some retired officers argue that the existing laws do not explicitly define a fixed retirement age or years of service for police officers. There is also a provision allowing re-engagement of retired officers upon application, subject to the IGP’s approval.
“There’s a proposal to establish special retirement rules for police officers, distinct from those governing the broader civil and public service,” a retired CP explained.
The dispute between the PSC and the police hierarchy is expected to continue, with many waiting to see whether the legal challenge will alter the retirement framework for Nigeria’s police force.
