Ex-IGP speaks over frosty relationship between NPF, Police Commission
Mike Okiro, former Inspector-General of Police, has urged the Police Service Commission (PSC) and the Nigeria Police Force to collaborate effectively to enhance national security.
Recent reports highlighted allegations of irregularities and corruption in the recruitment of Constables by the PSC for the 2022/23 batch into the Nigeria Police Force.
In a statement issued in Abuja on Tuesday, Okiro stressed that effectively addressing insecurity requires seamless cooperation between the commission and the police in their policing efforts across Nigeria.
He emphasised that the pressing concern for Nigerians is finding solutions to the pervasive insecurity plaguing the nation.
The statement reads: “I implore both parties to eschew whatever be their perceived bitterness and embrace the fact that their jobs go hand in hand.
“Their focus should be how to meet the overwhelming yearnings of the Nigerian people that can only happen when mutual respect exists between both parties.
“I am very concerned that a minute issue that can be resolved through robust dialogue was allowed to fester to the level of washing dirty linens in public.
“It is not right for any police personnel to contemplate engaging in any misconduct in the course of performing assumed official duties.
“To move forward, it is imperative to work quickly and assiduously to address the real challenges facing Nigerians; else, the goodwill enjoyed by both parties will soon dissipate.
“This will further erode the fabric of confidence of Nigerians in our democratic process, which will spell doom for our economy too.”
He called upon the leadership of both the commission and the police to convene, reconcile their differences, and prioritize peace and national security.
Okiro appealed to both parties to set aside their differences and restore the essential harmony needed for the timely commencement of training for successful candidates.
