The National Industrial Court in Abuja has scheduled December 18 for further proceedings in a lawsuit filed by 4,449 police officers against the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) and the Inspector General of Police (IGP).
The officers are challenging the IGP’s alleged refusal to decorate them with their newly approved ranks, despite their promotion being ratified by the Police Service Commission (PSC).
Representing the claimants, Barrister Muka’ila Yahaya Mavo urged the court, presided over by Hon. Justice R.B Haastrup, to compel the NPF and the IGP to implement the 19th plenary decision of the PSC, which approved the promotions. Mavo argued that the decision aligns with Section 6 (1)(a) of the PSC Act and Section 16(3)(a) of the Police Act.
Highlighting established precedents, Mavo pointed out that the tradition of collaboration between the NPF and the PSC has been upheld by the Supreme Court, which affirmed the PSC’s authority over appointments, promotions, and discipline of police officers, excluding the IGP.
Meanwhile, ACP Isa Garba, representing the NPF in court, declined to comment on the matter but noted that the Force PRO is better positioned to provide further details.
The case underscores ongoing tensions regarding the implementation of promotion decisions within the police force.
