The Police Service Commission (PSC) has taken a historic step to restore accountability in Nigeria’s law enforcement system by ordering the immediate retirement of all senior police officers who have exceeded the 35-year service limit or 60-year age cap.
This landmark decision, made at an extraordinary meeting on January 31, 2025, puts an end to years of manipulation and abuse, where some officers illegally extended their service in defiance of public service regulations.
Why This Decision Matters
For years, some senior officers exploited loopholes to remain in power, blocking promotions and hindering the growth of younger officers. The PSC’s decisive action reaffirms the rule of law and ensures that corruption, nepotism, and injustice no longer thrive within the police force.
By enforcing Public Service Rule 020908, which mandates retirement at either 35 years of service or 60 years of age, the PSC has upheld the principles of transparency, fairness, and integrity in the Nigerian security sector.
Key Highlights of the Decision:
- All senior police officers who have overstayed must retire immediately.
- The decision aligns with the long-standing public service laws that had been previously ignored
- The directive has been sent to the Inspector General of police for immediate implementation.
A Victory for Justice and Police Reform
This move is a major milestone in the fight for a more accountable, effective, and transparent police force. It signals a shift away from corrupt practices that have undermined the credibility of law enforcement in Nigeria.
With this decision, the Police Service Commission has set a precedent – no officer is above the law, and manipulating the system for personal gain will no longer be tolerated.
What’s Next?
The focus now shifts to the Inspector General of Police to enforce this directive without delay. Nigerians will be watching closely to ensure that every officer affected by this ruling steps down immediately, allowing fresh leadership and a new era of integrity in the police force.
This is a Press Release from:
Ikechukwu Ani
Head, Press and Public Relations
Friday January 31, 2025
