The Chairman of the Police Service Commission (PSC), DIG Hashimu Salihu Argungu (rtd), min, has called for a thorough examination of the foundational issues affecting the Nigeria Police Force as the nation considers the establishment of state police.
A statement by Torty Njoku Kalu , Head, Protocol and Public Affairs, PSC stated that Argungu gave the advise when he received the Committee for the Implementation of State Police, led by its Chairman, Professor Olu Ogunsakin, during a working visit to the Commission’s headquarters.
The delegation sought to tap into the institutional memory and expertise of the PSC Board given its pivotal role in the policing landscape.
Professor Ogunsakin noted that the task before the Committee was monumental, stating, “We cannot do it alone without tapping from the wisdom of the PSC. We are here to tap from your wealth of knowledge regarding the task before us to review the landscape, structure, and foundation to assist the Nigeria Police Force to move forward.” He described the PSC Chairman as a “fountain of knowledge.”
Responding DIG Argungu outlined a step-by-step procedure for actualizing effective state policing. He urged the Committee to diagnose the root causes that necessitated the demand for state police and make necessary amends.
“Find out what went wrong that necessitated the quest for the creation of state police,” the PSC Chairman advised. He stressed the importance of examining the nexus between Federal and State offences, distinguishing between public and private wrongs, and considering the implications of obsolete laws in the 21st century.
DIG Argungu recommended that the Committee study countries with successful state police models, analyze their challenges, and adapt lessons to the Nigerian context. He encouraged them not to hesitate to request additional time if required to deliver a thorough and effective job.
The PSC Board Members present at the visit included Hon. Justice Paul Adamu Galumje JSC, rtd (representing the Judiciary), DIG (Dr.) Taiwo Lakanu, rtd, fdc (representing the Police), and Chief Onyemuche Nnamani (Secretary to the Commission).
The Committee’s mandate is to propose an operational framework for the establishment and coordination of state police structures, including recruitment, training standards, and resource allocation.