We Are Not Aware Of Any Court Order On Reinstatement Of Dismissed Officer — Police
The Nigeria Police Force has denied knowledge of the existence of any court order directing the Inspector, -General of Police (IGP) Usman Alkali Baba to reinstate a dismissed officer, Mr Patrick Okoli.
A Federal High Court sitting in Abuja earlier today (Tuesday, 29th November) sentenced the IGP Baba to three months in prison for disobeying the said court order.
The court, in a judgment that was delivered by Justice M. O. Olajuwon, held that the IGP should be committed to prison and detained in custody for three months, or until he obeys an order it made on 21st October 2011.
But reacting to the development, Force Public Relations Officer (FPRO), CSP Olumuyiwa Adejobi said the IGP did not disregard court orders or rule of law as the office was not aware of any court order during the current IGP’s tenure.
“It is instructive to note that the case in point concerns an officer who was dismissed as far back as 1992, a few years after the current IGP joined the Nigeria Police Force, based on available facts gleaned from the reports. The most recent judgement on the matter was given in 2011 which should ordinarily not fall under the direct purview of the current administration of the Force. Thus, the news is strange and astonishing.
“The IGP has however directed the Commissioner of Police in charge of the Force Legal Unit to investigate the allegation in a bid to ascertain the position of the court and profer informed legal advice for the IGP’s prompt and necessary action.
“The Inspector-General of Police reiterates his commitment to upholding the rule of law and synergizing with the judiciary to ensure quick dispensation of justice for an improved criminal justice system”, the statement read.
The IGP’s committal followed a suit that was filed by Mr Okoli, who was unlawfully and compulsorily retired from the Nigerian Police Force.
Justice Olajuwon noted that though the Police Service Commission (PSC) recommended Okoli’s reinstatement into the Police, a decision that was affirmed by the court, the IGP, refused to comply with the order.
