PSC Clarifies Its Role in IGP Appointment and Removal

• The Police Service Commission states it lacks constitutional authority to appoint or remove the Inspector-General of Police, emphasizing its limited powers
• The PSC’s recent directive on officer retirements does not apply to the IGP, who the President appoints

The Police Service Commission (PSC) has stated that it lacks constitutional authority over appointing or removing the Inspector-General of Police (IGP).

In a statement issued on Monday, Ikechukwu Ani, Head of Press and Public Relations, clarified that the commission’s powers do not extend to the IGP’s tenure.

This clarification follows widespread inquiries and reports regarding the status of the current police chief, particularly after the PSC’s recent directive on police officer retirements.

The commission recently ordered the retirement of officers who have either completed 35 years of service or reached 60, as mandated by Public Service Rule No. 020908(i & ii).

However, Ani emphasized that this directive does not apply to the IGP, which the President appoints based on the advice of the Police Council.

Citing constitutional provisions, Ani explained:

• As amended, the PSC operates under Section 153(m) of the 1999 Constitution.
• Paragraph 30, Part 1 of the Third Schedule to the Constitution and Clause 6(1) of the PSC (Establishment) Act, 2001, outline the commission’s authority.
• While the PSC oversees the appointment, promotion, dismissal, and disciplinary control of police officers, this authority does not include the Inspector-General of Police.

The PSC further clarified that its recent meeting focused solely on regularising appointment dates for Cadet Assistant Superintendents of Police (ASPs) and Inspector Force Entrants.

The commission’s decision revisited a 2017 directive and aimed to align service records with public service rules.

Ani reiterated that the commission’s actions were strictly administrative and had no bearing on the tenure or position of the current IGP.