The Police Service Commission (PSC) announced on Friday that all senior police officers who have either served for over 35 years or are aged 60 and above must retire immediately.
In a statement released in Abuja, PSC spokesman Ikechukwu Ani explained that this decision was necessary to align with Public Service Rule No. 020908 (i & ii).
He clarified that the commission has reviewed its previous position regarding the enlistment dates of new officers, which had allowed recruits to use their date of enlistment rather than their initial appointment date.
Ani noted that this change stemmed from a decision made at the PSC’s 24th plenary meeting in September 2017. However, the PSC has now reversed that stance, stating it was inconsistent with the Public Service Rule, which mandates retirement at either 35 years of service or upon reaching the age of 60..
He stated, “The Police Service Commission rose from its first extraordinary meeting with the approval for the immediate retirement of senior police officers who have spent more than 35 years in service and those above 60 years of age.
“The commission at its 24th plenary meeting of 27th and 28th September 2017 had approved that the force entrants should have their date of appointment in the force against the date of their enlistment.
“The commission has passionately revisited their decision and has concluded that the said decision in its intent and purpose contradicted the principle of the merger of service in the public service and it violates Public Service Rule No 020908 (i & ii), which provides for retirement on attainment of 35 years in service or 60 years of age.”
The PSC official added that the directive had been formally communicated to the Inspector-General of Police for immediate implementation.
“The Commission Chairman, DIG Hashimu Argungu (rtd) presided over the extraordinary meeting and had Justice Adamu Paul Galumje, retired Justice of the Supreme Court and Hon Commissioner representing the Judiciary; DIG Taiwo Lakanu rtd, fdc, Honourable Commissioner representing the Police and Chief Onyemuchi Nnamani, Secretary to the Commission in attendance.
“The commission’s decision has been conveyed to the Inspector-General of Police for implementation,” he noted.