HURIWA issues seven-day ultimatum to Tinubu over PSC crisis

The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has raised alarm over what it describes as ongoing illegality within the Police Service Commission (PSC) and has given President Bola Tinubu a seven-working-day ultimatum to reconstitute the commission’s governing board or face legal action.

In a statement signed by Emmanuel Onwubiko, the National Coordinator of HURIWA, the group accused the PSC of operating in violation of its statutory framework.

It alleged that the commission, under its current leadership, functions with only three members—a chairman and two others—falling short of the quorum required by Section 29(b) of the 1999 Constitution.

“The law mandates that the PSC must have a governing board comprising no fewer than seven and no more than nine members, representing key sectors such as the judiciary, civil society, media, police, and private organisations,” HURIWA stated.

However, since the appointment of DIG Hashimu Argungu (retd) as Chairman in June 2024, alongside Chief Onyemuche Nnamani as Secretary and DIG Taiwo Lakanu (retd) as a member, the federal government has failed to appoint additional members, leaving the commission in breach of its legal framework.

Despite its incomplete structure, the PSC has taken significant actions, including the promotion of 11 Commissioners of Police to Assistant Inspectors General (AIG), 16 Deputy Commissioners to Commissioners, and the dismissal of two Assistant Superintendents of Police for misconduct.

HURIWA argued that these decisions lack legitimacy, as the commission’s current leadership does not meet the required quorum for decision-making.

“These actions undermine the principles of transparency, accountability, and inclusion that the law seeks to uphold,” the group stressed.

HURIWA criticised the federal government for delaying the reconstitution of the PSC board, warning that the situation jeopardises the commission’s vital oversight functions. The PSC is tasked with disciplining officers, ensuring accountability, and promoting professionalism within the Nigeria Police Force.

“The PSC’s role in maintaining discipline and professionalism within the police force is too critical to be left in its current state. Leaving such an important institution in the hands of just three people is a gross dereliction of duty,” the statement read.

The group also expressed concern that the absence of a fully constituted board could lead to arbitrary decisions, unmerited promotions, and a loss of public trust in the PSC.

HURIWA revealed it has mobilised over 100 lawyers and civil society organisations to challenge the situation in court if the government fails to act within the stipulated time frame.

“This government must demonstrate its commitment to the rule of law and good governance by reconstituting the PSC board immediately. Failure to do so will leave us no choice but to seek legal redress,” HURIWA warned.

The group further called on Nigerians to demand transparency and accountability from the government, emphasising that an incomplete PSC undermines its credibility and threatens national security.

“The PSC is a cornerstone of Nigeria’s security framework. Neglecting its proper functioning is a threat to national stability. The federal government must act now to restore its credibility and ensure the commission operates in compliance with the law,” the group added.

HURIWA’s ultimatum highlights the urgency of addressing the structural deficiencies within the PSC.

The group stressed that reconstituting the governing board is essential to upholding the rule of law, strengthening Nigeria’s security architecture, and ensuring accountability within the police force.