The Nigerian Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has issued a directive mandating that all officers assigned as Aide-De-Camps (ADCs) to Executive Governors must not hold a rank higher than Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP). This landmark decision has sparked widespread discussions across the country, raising questions about its implications for governance, security protocols, and the evolving relationship between state executives and law enforcement agencies.
The directive, which comes amid growing concerns about professionalism and discipline within the Nigeria Police Force, seeks to redefine the roles and responsibilities of ADCs while ensuring that senior-ranking officers remain focused on core policing duties. By limiting the ranks of individuals eligible for such assignments, the IGP aims to address perceptions of favoritism, misuse of police resources, and the potential erosion of institutional integrity. The move is seen as part of broader efforts to restore public trust in the police force and align it with global best practices.
Aide-De-Camps have long been an integral part of gubernatorial entourages in Nigeria, serving as personal assistants to governors and providing security support during official engagements. Traditionally, these positions have been filled by officers of varying ranks, including those holding senior titles such as Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) or even Commissioner of Police (CP). However, this practice has drawn criticism over the years, with detractors arguing that assigning high-ranking officers to non-operational roles undermines their primary mandate to combat crime and maintain public order.
Inspector General Egbetokun’s decision appears to be a direct response to these criticisms. By capping the rank of ADCs at DSP, the IGP is signaling a clear shift in priorities—emphasizing operational efficiency and accountability within the force. Senior officers, who are often tasked with strategic planning, oversight, and leadership responsibilities, will now be redirected toward addressing pressing security challenges across the nation. This realignment could prove particularly significant given Nigeria’s ongoing struggles with insurgency, banditry, kidnapping, and other forms of criminal activity.
The directive also reflects a desire to curb what some observers describe as the “politicization” of the police force. Over the years, allegations have surfaced regarding the misuse of police personnel for political purposes, including protecting the interests of individual politicians rather than serving the general public. Critics argue that assigning high-ranking officers as ADCs to governors sometimes blurs the line between professional duty and political loyalty, creating conflicts of interest that can compromise the impartiality of law enforcement. By restricting the ranks of ADCs, the IGP hopes to mitigate these risks and reinforce the principle that the police exist to serve the people—not specific individuals or groups.
Reactions to the new policy have been mixed. Supporters hail it as a bold step toward depoliticizing the police and enhancing its effectiveness. They contend that placing junior officers in ADC roles will free up experienced leaders to focus on critical issues like intelligence gathering, community policing, and counterterrorism operations. Additionally, they argue that DSPs are more than capable of fulfilling the responsibilities associated with being an ADC, provided they receive adequate training and support.
On the other hand, skeptics worry about the potential fallout from the decision. Some fear that governors may view the restriction as an affront to their authority, leading to friction between state executives and the police hierarchy. Others question whether DSPs possess the necessary experience and stature to handle the complex demands of protecting high-profile figures like governors. There are also concerns about how the directive will be implemented, particularly in states where existing arrangements involve senior-ranking officers.
Despite these reservations, the IGP’s announcement underscores a broader push for reform within the Nigeria Police Force. Since assuming office, Egbetokun has made no secret of his intention to overhaul the institution, tackling issues ranging from corruption and indiscipline to inadequate funding and outdated equipment. His latest directive aligns with previous initiatives aimed at streamlining operations, improving welfare conditions for officers, and fostering greater transparency in decision-making processes.
One key aspect of the directive is its potential impact on inter-agency relations. Historically, the assignment of ADCs has involved close collaboration between state governments and the police command structure. By imposing stricter guidelines, the IGP is effectively redefining this relationship, asserting greater control over how police resources are allocated. While this move could strengthen central oversight, it may also require careful diplomacy to avoid alienating governors who rely heavily on their ADCs for day-to-day security needs.
Another dimension worth considering is the symbolic significance of the directive. In a society where rank often correlates with status and influence, assigning lower-ranking officers as ADCs sends a powerful message about equality and humility in leadership. It challenges entrenched notions of hierarchy and privilege, reminding both politicians and citizens that no one is above the collective good. At the same time, it reinforces the idea that every member of the police force—from constables to commissioners—has a vital role to play in safeguarding the nation.
Looking ahead, the success of the directive will depend largely on its implementation and enforcement. Clear guidelines must be established to ensure that DSPs selected for ADC roles are properly vetted, trained, and equipped to carry out their duties effectively. Equally important is the need for sustained dialogue between the police leadership and state governments to address any grievances or misunderstandings that may arise. Building consensus around the policy will be crucial to achieving its intended objectives without compromising cooperation between stakeholders.
Moreover, the directive presents an opportunity to reassess the overall framework governing the deployment of police personnel. Beyond ADC assignments, there is a growing call for reforms that prioritize merit-based promotions, enhanced training programs, and improved working conditions for officers at all levels. These measures, if implemented comprehensively, could go a long way toward transforming the Nigeria Police Force into a truly modern and accountable institution.
As Nigerians digest the implications of the IGP’s directive, one thing is certain: the conversation about policing in the country is far from over. The decision to restrict the ranks of ADCs represents just one piece of a much larger puzzle—one that requires sustained effort, collaboration, and innovation to solve. For now, however, Inspector General Kayode Egbetokun deserves credit for taking a firm stance on an issue that has long divided opinion and hindered progress.
Ultimately, the true test of this policy will lie in its ability to deliver tangible benefits—not just for the police force but for the entire nation. If executed thoughtfully, it could pave the way for a more disciplined, efficient, and service-oriented approach to law enforcement. And in a country grappling with myriad security challenges, that would indeed be a welcome development.
