Buhari resolves IGP, PSC tussle over recruitment, promotion in police force

President Muhammadu Buhari has resolved the misgivings between the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) and the Police Service Commission (PSC), saying the PSC is responsible for appointments and promotions in the NFP.

The president stated this when he received the 2018 Annual Report of the PSC at the State House, Abuja, yesterday, adding that the PSC’s mandate also included disciplinary control of police officers, except the Inspector General of Police (IGP).

He, therefore, charged members of the PSC to redouble their efforts in ensuring that the Nigeria Police delivers on its responsibilities.

“The commission has the most challenging duty of carrying out oversight responsibilities of the police force.

“The people that comprise this commission are mostly personally known to me and some of them have been through the mill as it were, and therefore, I expect them to put the police in order.

“I personally believe that the IGP is doing his best. The police are always in the frontlines and unless we get the police to work effectively, the security of this country will remain in doubt,” he stated.

He noted that the commission’s assignment was enormous and called for sacrifice and commitment “especially now that almost every country is faced with severe internal security challenges. Nigeria is no exception.”

He commended the commission for new ideas introduced in the workings of the force, saying: “I am aware that you have put policies in place to reposition the Police Force in the areas of merit-driven promotions and prompt disciplinary actions.

“Government will require that you redouble your efforts and ensure that the Police Force receives the required assistance for optimum service delivery.”

He also charged the commission to ensure harmonious working relationship with the Police Force, saying: “I wish to see close communication and understanding between you and the Nigeria Police. This is necessary for the overall efficiency and effectiveness in securing the country.”

Speaking earlier, Chairman of the Commission, Musiliu Smith, who led other members of the PSC to the State House, told the President that in line with his (President’s) specific directives, the management was putting together a productive Nigeria Police Force.

He said this would require endorsement of all Nigerians and receive the acclaim of policemen themselves.

Smith also requested Buharis’ intervention in overcoming the commission’s funding constrains and securing a better office accommodation.