Nigerian Police Officers Embroiled in Age Falsification Scandal Refuse to Retire

A scandal is brewing in the Nigerian Police Force, as two high-ranking officers, Assistant Inspector-General of Police Idowu Owohunwa and Deputy Commissioner of Police Simon Lough, have refused to retire despite being implicated in an age falsification scandal.

The scandal involves allegations that many senior officers manipulated their records to extend their service beyond the legal limit of 35 years or the age of 60.

Despite an official directive for their retirement, both officers remain in their positions, defying the orders.

Seven Deputy Inspectors General have already retired from the force after failing to secure tenure extensions.

The retired DIGs include Galandachi, Ali Ari Muhammed, Rhoda Adetutu Olofu, Jonathan Towuru, Suleiman Yusuf, Banji Lawal Badru, and Bala Ciroma.

Lough, who should have retired on January 8, 2022, based on his date of enlistment, continues to represent the Nigerian police in court as the Head of the NPF Legal Unit.

Human rights lawyer Inibehe Effiong has stated that Lough’s continued service is both illegal and unethical, emphasizing that he can no longer represent the officer in court.

The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has ordered that senior police officers who refuse to retire should appear before a disciplinary committee.