By current matters
The Court of Appeal in Abuja has upheld the reinstatement of 455 senior police officers, dismissing an appeal by the Police Service Commission against a prior ruling of the National Industrial Court that nullified their retirement.
Delivering judgment on Wednesday, in a case filed by ACP Chinedu Ambrose Emengaha and eight others, challenging the legality of their disengagement from service., the court affirmed the decision of the lower court, which described the officers’ retirement as unlawful.
In appeal No. CA/ABJ/PRE/ROA/CV/1829MI/Ma 2025 between the Police Service Commission and ACP Chinedu Ambrose Emengaha & eight others, the appellant court upheld the earlier decision of the lower court, which set aside what it described as the illegal and forceful retirement of the officers.
The National Industrial Court had, in its September 30, 2025, ruling delivered by Justice R.B. Haastrup, ordered the immediate reinstatement of the affected officers and directed the payment of all outstanding salaries and allowances.
The court also restrained the commission and the then Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, from taking further steps in respect of the retirements.
The forced retirement of the officers had generated significant debate within the Nigeria Police Force, amid concerns over compliance with established procedures.
Senior officers affected by the decision include AIG Idowu Owohunwa, AIG Ben Igwe, and DCP Simon Lough.
The judgement is said to have settled longstanding disputes over the date of first appointment of officers in Cadet ASP Courses 18, 19 and 20.
The decision of the Appeal Court is binding on the Leadership of the Nigerian Police Force as the appellant court remains the last bus stop for matters arising from the Industrial Court.
