Supreme Court Rules In Favor Of Police Service Commission’s Exclusive Authority Over Constable Recruitment

The Police Service Commission (PSC) has declared that the Supreme Court has ruled in its favor, granting the commission exclusive authority for the recruitment of constables into the Nigeria Police Force.

The PSC and the NPF had been embroiled in a prolonged legal battle over the responsibility of constable recruitment following the approval to hire 10,000 constables annually for six years.

In a recent statement, PSC spokesperson Ikechukwu Ani revealed that on July 11, 2023, the highest court in the land decisively resolved the contentious matter between the commission and the police. Despite this, The PUNCH was unable to obtain the Certified True Copy of the judgment.

Ani quoted PSC Chairman Solomon Arase, who asserted that the Supreme Court judgment solidifies the commission’s statutory mandate in this regard. Arase emphasized that the judgment serves the interests of national security.

Ani noted that prior to the judgment, efforts were underway to amicably resolve the issue between the two institutions. He expressed disappointment over the protracted legal dispute, which he deemed avoidable, as it hindered the cooperative and harmonious functioning required of both entities.

Arase highlighted that the judgment ultimately benefits national security and underscores the necessity for harmonious collaboration among government agencies. He urged all parties to de-escalate hostilities and work together for the greater good.

Ani further shared that Arase announced the formation of a recruitment board, to be chaired by the PSC chairman, consisting of relevant stakeholders. This board will be responsible for screening and selecting qualified candidates to join the Nigeria Police Force, with a commitment to upholding the principles of Federal Character in the selection process.