Breaking: Police Chief Egbetokun Removes AIG Benneth Igweh, Orders Mass Redeployment Amid Age-Falsification Scandal

The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has removed Assistant Inspector General (AIG) Benneth Igweh from his position as head of Zone 7 following an ongoing investigation into age falsification within the Nigeria Police Force (NPF). This action comes as part of a sweeping crackdown on officers accused of manipulating their records to extend their years in service.

A confidential police memo dated February 10, 2025, revealed that the Police Service Commission (PSC), during its 1st Extraordinary Meeting of the 6th Management Board, directed the regularization of appointment dates for officers implicated in the scandal. This decision led to the forced retirement of numerous senior officers, including those in key strategic positions across various commands.

To fill the resulting vacancies and ensure continuity, a massive redeployment exercise has been ordered. A police wireless message sent to all zonal commands and departments outlined the immediate postings of Deputy Commissioners of Police (DCPs) and Assistant Commissioners of Police (ACPs) to new roles. The message also instructed affected officers to vacate their posts without delay, emphasizing strict adherence to the directive.

Among the reassigned officers, new heads have been appointed for strategic departments such as criminal investigations, legal affairs, counterterrorism, and intelligence. The memo further warns officers against assuming or wearing higher ranks without official confirmation, stressing that violations would attract disciplinary action.

This large-scale reshuffling is one of the most significant in recent police history, signaling a renewed push for integrity within the force. The NPF has reiterated its commitment to transparency and accountability, assuring the public that only officers with verified records and meritorious service will hold leadership positions moving forward. Analysts see this as a major step towards restoring credibility within Nigeria’s law enforcement institutions.