Nigeria Police Force Denies Alleged Sack of IGP by Federal High Court in Awka
The Nigeria Police Force has urged the general public to disregard the false news circulating on social media alleging the sack of the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Usman Alkali Baba, by a Federal High Court in Awka. The Police Force described the alleged news as false and unfounded, and noted that the judgment is subject to appeal. The Police Force also stated that the alleged news is the handiwork of mischief makers.
The IGP was appointed in November 2021 for a four-year tenure, and his stay in office is within the purview of his appointment. It is imperative to note that the Federal High Court sitting in Abuja dismissed a suit on February 21, 2023, that sought to compel the IGP to vacate his office on March 1, 2023. The court held that anyone appointed as the IGP has a statutorily recognized four-year tenure, which is sacrosanct.
The Nigeria Police Force reiterated that the IGP’s retirement has nothing to do with age or years of service. The IGP’s tenure is protected by Section 7 (6) of the Police Act, 2020. Therefore, the IGP remains in office and is duty-bound to execute the responsibilities of the office in accordance with extant laws.
The Nigeria Police Force reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the lives and properties of Nigerians. It called on members of the public to ignore the false news circulating on social media, and to support the efforts of the Police Force in maintaining law and order in the country.
