The Police Service Commission (PSC) has ordered the immediate retirement of police officers who are above 60 years of age or have served for more than 35 years. This decision was reached during the PSC’s first extraordinary meeting held on Friday, January 31, 2025.
The PSC reversed a 2017 decision that allowed “Force Entrants” to have their date of appointment counted against their enlistment date. According to the PSC, this policy contradicted the Public Service Rule No. 020908 (i & ii), which mandates retirement after 35 years of service or upon reaching 60 years of age.
In a statement, PSC spokesman Ikechukwu Ani explained, “The Commission has passionately revisited its decision and has come to the conclusion that the said decision in its intent and purpose contradicted the principle of the merger of service in the Public service.” He added that the decision aligns with the Public Service Rules, ensuring uniformity in retirement policies across the public sector.
The PSC has communicated the decision to the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, for immediate implementation. This move comes amid ongoing debates about the tenure of the IGP, who was appointed by President Bola Tinubu in June 2023 and confirmed by the National Police Council in October 2023.
Controversy Over IGP’s Tenure
Section 7 of the Police Act 2020 stipulates that the IGP shall serve for four years. However, Egbetokun, who was born on September 4, 1964, was expected to retire in September 2024 when he turned 60. Despite this, the National Assembly passed a bill in July 2024 allowing Egbetokun to remain in office until the end of his stipulated term. The Federal Government has defended this decision, arguing that it is legal.
Section 18 (8) of the Police Act 2020 reinforces the retirement rule, stating that “every police officer shall, on recruitment or appointment, serve in the Nigeria Police Force for a period of 35 years or until he attains the age of 60 years, whichever is earlier.”
The PSC’s decision underscores its commitment to upholding the Public Service Rules and ensuring a structured retirement policy within the Nigeria Police Force. By retiring officers who have either served for 35 years or reached the age of 60, the PSC aims to create opportunities for younger officers and maintain efficiency within the force.
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