A total of 4,449 police officers have filed a lawsuit against the Nigeria Police Force and the Inspector-General of Police (IG) at the National Industrial Court in Abuja. The officers allege that the force has failed to officially promote them to their approved ranks despite authorization from the Police Service Commission (PSC).
Basis of the Lawsuit
The officers claim the IG has refused to implement decisions from the PSC’s 19th plenary session, which approved their promotions under the PSC Act. Their legal representative, Muka’ila Mavo, argued in court that the PSC has the sole authority to manage appointments, promotions, and discipline of police officers, excluding the IG, as outlined in:
- Section 6(1)(a) of the PSC Act
- Section 16(3)(a) of the Police Act
Mavo further highlighted a Supreme Court ruling that affirms the PSC’s authority over promotions and disciplinary matters within the police force.
Court Proceedings
During the hearing presided over by Justice R.B. Haastrup, Mavo urged the court to compel the Nigeria Police Force and the IG to implement the approved promotions without further delays.
Meanwhile, the Nigeria Police Force’s counsel, ACP Isa Garba, refrained from providing extensive comments, stating that only the Force Public Relations Officer could offer more details.
Next Steps
Justice Haastrup adjourned the case until December 18 for continued hearing, leaving the fate of the officers’ promotions hanging until the matter is resolved.
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