4,449 policemen sue IG over delayed promotion
CHIGOZIE AMADI
No fewer than 4,449 police officers have taken legal action against the Nigerian Police Force and the Inspector General of Police, filing a lawsuit at the National Industrial Court in Abuja over the delayed implementation of their promotions.
Despite their promotions being approved by the Police Service Commission in line with its statutory powers, the officers allege that they have not been decorated with their new ranks.
The case, presided over by Justice R.B. Haastrup, was adjourned on Tuesday for further hearing, with proceedings set to continue on December 18.
The claimants’ counsel, Muka’ila Mavo, urged the court to issue an order compelling the NPF and the IGP to implement the 19th plenary decision of the PSC, which had approved the promotion of the 4,449 officers.
Mavo argued that the commission’s decision aligns with Section 6 (1) (a) of the PSC Act and Section 16 (3) (a) of the Police Act.
Speaking on the matter, Mavo stated, “It has been the tradition between the NPF and the PSC, one that has received judicial endorsement from the Supreme Court, that the PSC is responsible for the appointment, promotion, and discipline of all police officers, except for the IGP.”
Meanwhile, the counsel representing the NPF, ACP Isa Garba, declined to provide detailed comments, stating that the Force Public Relations Officer would be in a better position to address inquiries about the case.
