IGP Orders Rank Restriction For Governors’ Aide-De-Camps

Police Enforce New Rank Limit for ADCs to Governors

The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has issued a new directive restricting the rank of officers serving as Aide-De-Camp (ADC) to state governors. According to the directive, which takes immediate effect, no ADC assigned to a governor should hold a rank higher than Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP).

This order was contained in a Police Wireless Message dated March 10, 2025, addressed to all police Commands, Units, and Departments. The directive, signed by the Force Secretary, aims to enforce discipline and ensure proper adherence to police hierarchy in assignments involving state governors.

The wireless message, obtained by SaharaReporters, highlights the concern that some ADCs have remained in their positions despite being promoted beyond the required rank for such duties.

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The police chief expressed dissatisfaction over the continued retention of higher-ranking officers as ADCs. According to the directive, such promotions contradict the established policy and must be corrected immediately.

“The Inspector General of Police (INGENPOL) has observed with dismay that aide-de-camp (ADC) deployed to governors still maintain their duty post after being elevated over and above the designated rank for such deployment,” the message stated.

The directive further mandates all Commissioners of Police (COMPOLS) across the country to enforce strict compliance with the new rule. “He therefore firmly directs that henceforth, officers posted to executive governors as aide-de-camp (ADC) should not be above the rank of Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP). Commissioners of Police (COMPOLS) in all states, this is for your strict compliance. Treat as very important please,” the message emphasized.

Role of ADCs and Concerns Over Rank Disparity

An Aide-De-Camp (ADC) is a senior police officer responsible for serving as a personal assistant and security detail to high-ranking government officials, including state governors. The role requires professionalism, discretion, and adherence to police protocols.

However, in recent years, some ADCs have continued to serve in their capacity even after being promoted beyond the DSP rank. This has led to concerns within the police force, including:

• Favoritism: Some officers reportedly retain their ADC positions due to political connections, creating perceived biases in police assignments.
• Governor’s Influence Over Police: Higher-ranking officers serving as ADCs may have undue loyalty to state governors, potentially weakening police independence.
• Internal Police Discipline: Allowing officers to hold ADC positions beyond their designated rank disrupts police hierarchy and discipline.

Implications of the New Directive

With the new directive in place, all ADCs above the rank of DSP must be replaced, ensuring that only officers within the designated rank serve in such roles. The move is expected to restore order and prevent any undue influence from governors over senior police officers.

By enforcing this directive, the Nigeria Police Force aims to maintain professionalism and ensure that officers do not bypass police hierarchy for political or personal gain.