Police dismiss report on sack of IGP Alkali Baba

The Nigeria Police on Monday refuted the alleged removal of the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Usman Alkali Baba by a Federal High Court in Awka, Anambra State.

Force Public Relations Officer, Force Headquarters, Abuja, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, in a statement said that the reported judgment was subject to appeal and emphasized that the news was false, baseless, and likely the work of mischief-makers.

Adejobi noted that the IGP was appointed through a letter-number SGF.20/S.6/83 dated November 30, 2021, for a four-year tenure, and his continued presence in office aligned with the terms of his appointment.

He further emphasized that it was important to note that the Federal High Court in Abuja, on Tuesday, February 21, 2023, dismissed a lawsuit seeking to compel IGP Usman Alkali Baba to vacate his position on March 1, 2023.

The judgment, delivered by Justice J. K. Omotosho, cited Section 7 (6) of the Police Act, 2020, which granted a four-year tenure to any individual appointed as the IGP.

The court emphasized the sanctity of this four-year term and clarified that retirement as the IGP was not contingent upon age or years of service.

Adejobi further stated that the four-year tenure for the position of IGP was institutionalized by the law, serving the overall betterment of the Nigeria Police Force rather than favouring any particular individual.

He urged the public to disregard the false information circulating on social media platforms.

“IGP Usman Alkali Baba remains the Inspector-General of Police and is committed to fulfilling the responsibilities of the office in accordance with existing laws,” he said.

Adejobi also reiterated the IGP’s dedication to enhancing policing services within the country and promoting professionalism and community-oriented policing.