Joint Union Congress of PSC reacts to IGP’s condemnation of recruitment process

Juliana Francis

The Joint Union Congress of the Police Service Commission, has finally reacted to allegations made by the Inspector General of Police, Mr Kayode Egbetokun, alleging that the recruitment under the sacked Chairman of the Police Service Commission was fraught with irregularities and corruption.

A statement signed by the Joint Union Congress of PSC, expressed shock over the statement emanating from the Force Headquarters, allegedly acquiescence by the IGP.

Joint Union Congress of PSC explained that to show transparency and ensure that everyone was on the same page, the PSC had always worked and collaborated with the Police.

It says: “The powers and mandates of the Police Service Commission (PSC) are derived from the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and reinforced by the 2001 Establishment Act of the Police Service Commission. These have been unequivocally reiterated, interpreted, and affirmed by the Supreme Court judgement of July 11, 2023. As such, the PSC is the sole executive body responsible for appointing qualified Nigerians into the Nigeria Police Force (NPF).

“In line with our commitment to democratic principles, responsibility, inclusiveness, and transparency, the Commission has consistently engaged other relevant bodies, including the NPF, in the recruitment process. Despite our collaborative approach, we will not be swayed by any form of blackmail or threats, as exemplified by the recent press release issued by the Inspector-General of Police and the NPF.

“This release, with reference number CZ.5300/FPRD/FHQ/ABJ/VOL.6/178, dated June 15, 2024, was signed by the Force Public Relations Officer on behalf of the Inspector-General of Police.

“While we thank the public and all well-meaning Nigerians for the support, we enjoin all, to remain calm and avoid fake news and unnecessary panic as we promise to make a more elaborate press conference in the coming days, to lay to rest all salient issues, as we assure the integrity of the Police Service Commission that is just fair and equitable to all Nigerians.”