The National Police Commission has granted the Inspector General of Police (IGP) the authority to appoint and transfer Officers-in-Charge (OICs) of police stations.
The official document conferring these powers was reportedly forwarded to the IGP by the Commission. Previously, all appointments and transfers of police officers above the rank of OIC were handled solely by the National Police Commission.
According to senior Commission officials, the decision was taken in response to complaints of corruption, irregularities, and inefficiencies that hindered the IGP’s ability to promptly transfer OICs when necessary, creating serious administrative obstacles within the police service.
Under the new arrangement, the IGP can act directly in matters concerning OIC appointments and transfers. However, the Commission retains the authority to hear appeals from OICs who believe they have been transferred or removed without valid reason.
If such appeals are lodged, the Commission can investigate and, where appropriate, reverse or amend the transfer decision.
