NOPRIN writes Arase, demands probe of alleged bribery against staff of PSC

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The Network on Police Reforms in Nigeria (NOPRIN) has petitioned the Police Service Commission’s Chairman, Dr. Solomon Arase, asking that he should probe allegations of bribery carried out by some staff of the commission.

The National Coordinator, Mr Emmanuel Ikule, said: “We wish to request that investigations be carried out to ascertain the allegations of receipt of bribes by some senior officers of the Police Service Commission (PSC) to manipulate the promotion exercise of Officers of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF).

“Network on Police Reform in Nigeria (NOPRIN Foundation) is a network of 67 civil society organizations spread across Nigeria and committed to promoting police accountability and respect for human rights. It was established in 2000 to provide opportunities for civil society input to police reform, and the enhancement of safety, security and justice in Nigeria.

“We appreciate the good office of the Chairman, Police Service Commission, and the laudable initiatives which you have led since your assumption into office as the Chairman.

“Some of these initiatives include; the setting up of a joint committee drawn from the Nigeria Police Force and the Police Service Commission, tasked with the responsibility of finding a lasting solution to the recurring conflict over recruitment into the NPF.

“The meeting at your instance between retired Inspectors General of Police (IGP) and the current IGP to seek better ways of effective partnerships between the NPF and the PSC.

“We however write to bring to your notice an alleged bribery scandal against the Police Service Commission published by Sahara Reporters on the 11th of April, 2023.

“In that report, it was alleged amongst other things that certain senior officers of the Police Service Commission have received bribes to doctor the promotion of officers of the Nigeria Police Force. It was stated that the alleged manipulation by officers of the PSC has led to the undue promotion of some officers of the NPF and hence discontent and grievances amongst other officers of the NPF.

“We urge the Chairman of the Police Service Commission, Dr Solomon Arase to launch an investigation into the above allegations as it is important that the commission that regulates the promotion of Police Officers must maintain the morale of these Police Officers. It is also important to state that a merit-based Public Service is an essential foundation upon which to develop a culture of integrity.

“While looking forward to the reports following the investigation of these allegations, we assure you of our being your dependable ally in building an international standard Police Service.”