“Ignore PSC Directive, Remain in Office” – IGP Egbetokun to Police Officers Affected by Retirement Order

Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun has directed all police officers affected by the recent retirement order from the Police Service Commission (PSC) to disregard the directive and remain in office.

The PSC had ordered officers who have completed 35 years of service or reached the age of 60 to retire immediately. However, in a wireless message dated February 11, 2025, from the office of the Force Secretary, the IGP instructed affected officers to “stay action, pending further instruction.” The directive emphasized strict compliance.

PSC spokesman Ikechukwu Ani previously stated that the commission’s decision was based on a review of its 24th plenary meeting in September 2017. That review had allowed police personnel to use their enlistment date rather than their initial appointment date for determining service years. The PSC cited inconsistencies with Public Service Rule No. 020908, which mandates retirement after 35 years of service or upon reaching 60 years of age.

Despite the directive, the PSC clarified that it does not have the constitutional authority to determine the appointment or retirement of IGP Egbetokun.