PSC Chairman Warns Against Police Involvement in Civil Matters …as it snnounces Measures to Ensure Transparent Recruitment Process

By Iyojo Ameh

The Chairman of the Police Service Commission (PSC), retired Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG) Hashimu Argungu, has issued a strong warning to serving police officers against involvement in civil disputes such as land, rent, and marital matters.

He stated that any officer found engaging in such cases will face sanctions, including suspension of promotions.

Speaking on the issue, DIG Argungu emphasized that the failure of the police force would reflect negatively on the Commission, and as such, the PSC will no longer tolerate the abuse of office by serving officers.

He stressed that officers should refrain from meddling in civil matters and allow the courts to handle such disputes appropriately.

He made this statement during a meeting with a delegation from the Justice Research Institute, led by Mr. Ade Ipaye. Argungu vowed to lead a transparent and corruption-free administration within the PSC, highlighting the need for accountability in the management of the Commission’s funds.

“I will never spare thieves wherever I am. We are here to assist the government in fighting corruption,” Argungu said, reiterating his dedication to accountability and good governance.

Sharing his approach to leadership, he said, “I come to work before 8 a.m. and I am the last to leave the office. That is leadership. My mandate is not to embezzle money; I must ensure transparency and openness, and I will fight to the last.”

During the meeting, Argungu assured the delegation that the PSC would partner with the Justice Research Institute in the area of staff training, both locally and internationally. He said the partnership would ensure the Commission’s staff are well-equipped to perform their roles effectively.

Mr. Ipaye expressed optimism about working with the PSC Chairman, praising Argungu’s commitment to fighting corruption. He noted that transparency in governance has often been a rarity but was pleased to find an ally in the PSC Chairman.

He further explained that the Justice Research Institute aims to help the PSC fulfill its constitutional mandate, particularly in improving the functioning of the Nigeria Police Force. The institute, he said, would focus on training PSC staff to enhance their ability to oversee the police force and ensure that officers adhere to their duties.

Additionally, DIG Argungu announced new measures aimed at improving the recruitment process into the Nigeria Police Force. He revealed the creation of a Joint Oversight Committee on police recruitment, co-chaired by himself and the Inspector General of Police (IGP), to ensure a smooth, transparent, and fair recruitment process.

A new Police Recruitment Secretariat will be established at the PSC headquarters, which will serve as the central hub for coordinating recruitment activities. The Secretariat will streamline communication, ensure proper documentation, and improve the efficiency of the entire recruitment process. Furthermore, a recruitment portal, to be accessible to stakeholders, will be located at the Commission’s corporate headquarters, ensuring transparency and proper oversight.

These moves are part of DIG Argungu’s efforts to foster a more efficient and accountable police service that adheres strictly to the rule of law and the mandates of the Commission.