PSC chairman urges review of foundational issues ahead of State Police consideration

By Kingsley Omonobi

The Chairman of the Police Service Commission (PSC), DIG Hashimu Salihu Argungu (rtd), has called for a thorough examination of foundational issues affecting the Nigeria Police Force as discussions on the establishment of state police continue.

He made the statement while receiving the Committee for the Implementation of State Police, led by Professor Olu Ogunsakin, during a working visit to the Commission’s headquarters. The delegation sought to draw on the PSC’s institutional knowledge and expertise.

Professor Ogunsakin noted the significance of the task before the Committee, saying, “We are here to tap from your wealth of knowledge to review the landscape, structure, and foundation to assist the Nigeria Police Force to move forward.”

In response, DIG Argungu outlined a step-by-step approach for effective state policing. He urged the Committee to diagnose the root causes that have prompted the demand for state police and to make recommendations to address them.

“Find out what went wrong that necessitated the quest for the creation of state police,” he said. He also emphasised examining the relationship between federal and state offences, distinguishing between public and private wrongs, and reviewing the relevance of existing laws in the 21st century.

DIG Argungu recommended studying international examples of state policing, analyzing challenges faced, and adapting lessons to the Nigerian context. He encouraged the Committee to request additional time if needed to ensure thorough and effective recommendations.

PSC Board members present included Hon. Justice Paul Adamu Galumje (rtd) representing the Judiciary, DIG (Dr.) Taiwo Lakanu (rtd) representing the Police, and Chief Onyemuche Nnamani, Secretary to the Commission.

The Committee is tasked with proposing an operational framework for the establishment and coordination of state police structures, covering areas such as recruitment, training standards, and resource allocation.