…By Dorcas Funmi for TDPel Media.
In a recent meeting between service chiefs and President Bola Tinubu, the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Usman Baba, made an appearance.
This development is noteworthy due to a recent court ruling ordering his removal from office.
Despite the court’s decision, Baba attended the meeting held at the Aso Rock Presidential Villa.
Court Ruling Challenges IGP’s Appointment:
A Federal High Court in Awka, Anambra State, declared the appointment and tenure of the IGP as illegal.
The court also specifically instructed Baba to cease presenting himself as the Inspector-General of Police.
Moreover, the court mandated the President to convene a meeting of the Nigeria Police Council to appoint a new Inspector General, who would serve a four-year term.
Police Headquarters Denies Sacking Reports:
The Force Headquarters responded to the court ruling by refuting media reports claiming that Baba had been dismissed following the judgment.
The Police Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Muyiwa Adejobi, issued a statement urging Nigerians to disregard news about the alleged removal of the police chief.
Baba Joins Security Meeting with Tinubu:
Despite the ongoing legal controversy surrounding his position, IGP Usman Baba attended the security meeting alongside other high-ranking officials.
This included the Chief of Defense Staff, General Lucky Irabor, the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Farouk Yahaya, the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Awwal Gambo, and the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Isiaka Amao.
This marked the first security meeting between the service chiefs and President Tinubu.