By Adewole Kehinde
“There are three essentials to leadership: humility, clarity, and courage.” — Chan Master Fuchan Yuan
It is important to address the concerns raised in Sahara Reporters’ recent publication titled, “Nigerian Police Service Commission Petitioned To Probe Retired AIGs Who Allegedly Still Perform Official Duties,” and to clarify some of the misconceptions about the power of the office of the Inspector General of Police.
First, promotions, appointments, and postings of officers in the Nigeria Police are done by both the Nigeria Police Management and the Police Service Commission. Therefore, decisions within the Nigeria Police Force are guided strictly by merit and expertise.
This strategy guarantees that only the best and most capable officers hold key roles in the Nigeria Police’s success. The Nigeria Police, led by IGP Kayode Egbetokun, strongly emphasises professionalism, which is supported by the dedication of skilled law enforcement personnel.
We are all aware that on Wednesday, December 18th 2024, the PSC Standing Committee on Police Promotions, chaired by DIG Taiwo Lakanu rtd, elevated 8053 senior police officers as it wrapped up decisions on promotions
Also, on Tuesday, December 24th, 2024, the PSC approved the appointment of six state commissioners.
From the above, due process was followed, from promotion to appointment for various vacancies with the force.
I am aware that one of the AIGs mentioned in the petition will be pulled out of the Nigeria Police on Monday, 30th, December 2025, at Ikeja, Lagos.
IGP Kayode Egbetokun is an officer who has created a professional and disciplined force that is committed to upholding the rule of law; therefore, he will not create an unjust environment that undermines morale and trust within the police force, as well as among the citizens they serve.
In a matter of days, the petition by “some aggrieved policemen” who alleged that some retired Assistant Inspector-General of Police (AIGs) are still performing official duties as though they were in active service will be put to rest by the Inspector General of Police.
My findings have shown that those who are vying for the position of the AIG Police Cooperatives Lagos, AIG Works and AIG Police Airwing are behind the petition to the Police Service Commission.
The Inspector-General of Police has the power to appoint in consultation with the Police Service Commission into vacant positions and such appointments are based on integrity, accountability and professionalism.
Gone are the days of appointments based on ethnic identities, IGP Egbetokun’s appointment has been competent, service-driven and rule of law-compliant. All his appointment so far reflects the police’s fundamental purpose and direction.
Even if the professional expertise of the retired AIGs is needed, the Inspector-General of Police has the power to appoint and reappoint them.
Under Part III of the Police Act (as amended)—Appointment, removal, function, and powers of Inspector General of Police, subsection 9(6), the Inspector-General of Police may: (a) re-engage a retired police officer for two years; and (b) upon application by the retired police officer, re-engage him for another period of two years.
How do the petitioners determine the stays in office of the AIGs preventing “deserving individuals, who have met the necessary qualifications and service requirements,” from receiving the promotions they deserve?
Promotions come from the Police Service Commission, while postings come from the IGP in consultation with the PSC.
The petition is nothing but sheer red herring, ostensibly orchestrated to detract from the IGP’s disciplined leadership that upholds the competency of the Nigeria Police as well as the Force’s work ethic that has produced its strings of sterling performances.
The Nigeria Police has made significant progress under IGP Egbetokun’s leadership. These turning points were not characterised, tinted, or shaped by early fault lines of appointments. The desire for perfection among all of them served as an inspiration.
IGP Kayode Egbetokun remains committed to the Nigeria Police vision, which is aimed at creating a professional and disciplined force that is committed to upholding the rule of law, protecting the rights of citizens, and ensuring peace and security in the country.
This vision includes promoting integrity, accountability, and respect for human rights among its personnel, as well as fostering a spirit of service to the community. The aim is to build a police force that is trusted and respected by the people it serves.
Adewole Kehinde is the publisher of Swift Reporters, based in Abuja. kennyadewole@gmail.com 08166240846 @kennyadewole
