By Fatima Zahra Muhammad
The Police Service Commission (PSC) has solicited support from the German Government and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in improving Nigeria’s Policing system.
The Chairman of PSC, Dr. Solomon Arase, conveyed the commission’s request during a meeting with the stakeholders in Abuja on Wednesday.
A statement issued by the Head, of Press and Public Relations, Ikechukwu Ani said that the commission was seeking support, particularly in the training of personnel of the Force.
“At the Meeting held at the Corporate Headquarters of the Commission in Jabi, Abuja, Justice Clara Bata Ogunbiyi, CFR, retired Justice of the Supreme Court, who represented the Chairman said it has been a difficult task to oversight the Police with the myriads of challenges facing the Commission.
“Justice Ogunbiyi solicited assistance from the Organization and the German Government in some areas that will help the Commission rebuild the Nigeria Police Force for better performance.
“She mentioned the building of an automated Police Personnel database and Conduct of a verification exercise on Police Personnel.
“This, she said will enable the Commission to have liable data on Police Personnel in Nigeria.
“Justice Ogunbiyi also said the Commission will need support in carrying out background checks on recruits and cadets in training to assist verify their credentials and determine previous criminal records or involvement in criminal activities.
“She spoke on the need for medical/psychiatric evaluation of Police Officers for early detection of illness and to prevent sudden deaths while in service.
“According to her, it will also help discover Officers who are addicted to hard drugs or alcohol and rehabilitate them.
“Mentally unstable Officers will also be discovered and taken off the streets or their appointments terminated, ” the statement said.
Responding, Simon Ridley of UNDP Nigeria said the organization is in the Commission to explore ways to support and strengthen the ongoing Police Reforms in the Country.
Mr. Ridley also noted that the organization was also interested in the Commission’s role in Police oversight and accountability and to explore opportunities for collaboration.
