In a startling revelation, the Police Service Commission (PSC) has identified critical errors in the screening process for new recruits into the Nigeria Police Force. This issue came to light following the recruitment of 10,000 constables, during which it was discovered that individuals with hearing impairments and those exhibiting suicidal tendencies were mistakenly approved.
The PSC vehemently criticized the police personnel responsible for the physical and medical screenings, asserting their failure to meet the requisite standards. Amidst these controversies, the Commission has challenged the police to produce tangible evidence to support these allegations, labeling them as damaging and unsubstantiated.
Judicial Backing and Recruitment Rights
The recent discord traces back to a significant Supreme Court decision on July 11, 2023, which has become a cornerstone in the ongoing power struggle between the Police Service Commission and the Nigeria Police Force. This ruling reinforced the PSC’s exclusive authority over the recruitment of police constables, stripping the police of any such powers except for appointments concerning the Office of the Inspector General of Police.
Despite this clear mandate, the police have continued to overstep their boundaries, leading to a series of unauthorized recruitment exercises in 2020 and 2021. These actions not only defy the apex court’s judgment but also undermine the statutory functions granted to the PSC by the Constitution.
Call for Presidential Intervention
The PSC has now called upon the President to intervene and ensure that the police adhere to their constitutional boundaries. The Commission argues that the continuous interference by the police in the recruitment process poses a direct threat to the integrity and effectiveness of the police force itself.
By allowing the recruitment process to proceed without undue influence, the PSC aims to restore trust and uphold the standards necessary for law enforcement in the country. They insist that the recruits validated by their process should be allowed to commence their training immediately, emphasizing the urgency of reinforcing law and order amidst growing national security concerns.
The PSC also highlighted that the persistent overreach by the police into matters of recruitment is an attempt to maintain control over the enlistment of constables, despite the Supreme Court’s clear verdict. Such actions not only challenge the judicial authority but also jeopardize the operational capacity of the police force by potentially introducing unfit candidates into a critical public safety role.
As the debate intensifies, the PSC remains firm in its commitment to oversee the recruitment process as mandated by law. Their stance is not only about maintaining legal authority but also about ensuring the recruitment of competent and mentally fit individuals who can effectively contribute to the safety and security of the nation. The Commission’s efforts to involve various stakeholders in the recruitment process reflect their dedication to transparency and inclusiveness, despite the challenges posed by the police’s actions.
Source: Vanguard
