The Nigeria Police Service Commission (PSC) has received a petition from concerned policemen alleging that certain retired Assistant Inspectors-General of Police (AIGs) continue to perform official duties as though they were still in active service.
The petition, dated December 4, 2024, was also forwarded to the Office of the National Security Adviser, the National Assembly, and the Federal Civil Service Commission.
According to the petitioners, the retired officers in question include AIG Oyediran Oyeyemi Adesoye, who served as a key member of the Police Cooperatives in Lagos and retired in April 2024; AIG Stephen O. Olarewaju, who retired as Head of Works on October 1, 2024; and AIG Danladi Bitrus Lalas, who retired as Head of Police Airwing on November 5, 2024.
The petitioners argue that the continued involvement of these retired officers in official duties hinders the promotion of qualified police personnel who have met all the necessary requirements.
The petition reads in part: “We wish to formally express our deep apprehension regarding a significant violation of the Nigeria Police Act 2020, specifically the provisions outlined in Sections 18 and 11(2)(a).
Our concern pertains to the actions of certain high-ranking officers identified in this letter. These officers, despite their retirement, continue to perform their duties as if they were still in active service.”
The petition further alleges that the actions of these retired officers prevent deserving individuals from advancing in their careers, leading to frustration among current police personnel.
It calls for an investigation into the matter, urging the PSC to ensure accountability and transparency in the promotion process.
One of the most concerning aspects highlighted by the petition is that AIG Danladi Bitrus Lalas, despite retiring on November 5, 2024, continued to handle official documents as recently as November 24, 2024.
In one document, Lalas is seen referring to an Inspector-General of Police letter dated October 9, 2024, discussing a contract for the supply of armored helicopters for the Nigeria Police Force.
The petitioners assert that the actions of these retired officers breach the provisions of the Nigeria Police Act 2020 and tarnish the integrity of the promotion process within the force. They further argue that such conduct, if left unchecked, may serve as a deterrent to others who might contemplate similar actions.
In conclusion, the petitioners are calling for a thorough and transparent investigation into the continued involvement of AIGs Adesoye, Olarewaju, and Lalas in police affairs, and for appropriate actions to be taken to uphold the rule of law and restore confidence in the Nigeria Police Force.
The Nigeria Police Service Commission has yet to respond to the petition.