IG Faces Legal Battle as 4,449 Policemen Sue Over Promotion Delay
A massive 4,449 police officers have dragged the Nigeria Police Force and the Inspector-General of Police to the National Industrial Court in Abuja, alleging that the force has neglected to promote them to their newly approved ranks, despite clearance from the Police Service Commission.
The suit hinges on the alleged refusal of the IG to implement the decision of the 19th plenary of the PSC, which granted their promotions in accordance with the PSC Act.
At the court hearing presided over by Justice R.B. Haastrup, on Tuesday, counsel for the claimants, Muka’ila Mavo, urged the court to compel the Nigeria Police Force and the IG to implement the approved promotions without further delay.
Mavo cited Section 6 (1)(a) of the Police Service Commission Act and Section 16(3)(a) of the Police Act, stating that these laws empower the PSC to handle appointments, promotions, and discipline of police officers, excluding the IG.
“The Supreme Court has also affirmed this position, granting judicial backing to the PSC’s authority over promotions and discipline within the police force,” Mavo argued.
In response, counsel for the Nigeria Police Force, ACP Isa Garba, declined to elaborate on the matter, stating that the Force Public Relations Officer would be in a better position to provide details.
Justice Haastrup adjourned the case till December 18 for further hearing.
