The Police Service Commission (PSC) has expressed deep concern over what it perceives as unprofessional conduct within the Special Police Constabulary, a quasi-police formation established to contribute to community policing efforts.
In a statement released by the PSC’s Head of Press and Public Relations, Ikechukwu Ani, on Thursday, the commission called for a reconsideration of the constabulary’s uniform and advocated for the disbandment of units in states where members are not receiving adequate compensation and care.
Highlighting the potential risks associated with arming individuals and granting them the authority to maintain law and order without proper financial remuneration, the PSC emphasized the dangers of allowing such groups to operate freely. It pointed out that some members of the constabulary have resorted to aggressive extortion and intimidation of innocent Nigerians for their sustenance.
“Reports of their unprofessional conduct range from high-handedness in dealing with citizens and bare-faced extortion on our roads and communities.
Expressing dissatisfaction with the current state of affairs, the PSC announced its discomfort with the organization and operations of the Special Police Constabulary nationwide. The commission disclosed its ongoing communication with the Inspector General of Police, signaling the imperative need for a comprehensive overhaul of the constabulary’s structure and activities.
The Police Service Commission (PSC) has underscored the importance of changing the uniform of the Special Police Constabulary to facilitate distinct identification and tracking of their conduct. This move aims to alleviate any unwarranted blame directed at the Nigeria Police Force for the misconduct of constabulary members.
“The Commission calls for an entirely different set of uniforms for Officers of the outfit that should be easily differentiated from that of the regular Police Officers.”
Solomon Arase, the Chairman of the Commission and a retired Inspector General of Police, emphasized the imperative for collaboration with the leadership of the Nigeria Police Force to overhaul the organization and operations of the constabulary.
Arase stressed the urgent necessity of establishing clear distinctions between the Special Constabulary and regular Police Officers. This differentiation includes not only uniforms but also defining their operations and rules of engagement.
By implementing these changes, the PSC aims to bring about a more accountable and transparent system, reducing the potential for confusion and ensuring that the actions of the constabulary are appropriately attributed without tarnishing the reputation of the Nigeria Police Force.