In a recent statement issued by the Police Service Commission (PSC), Chairman Solomon Arase strongly recommends a comprehensive overhaul, disbandment, or the adoption of distinct uniforms for the Special Police Constabulary. Arase asserts that the current practices of this quasi-police formation are tarnishing the image of the Nigeria Police Force.
The PSC spokesperson, Ikechukwu Ani, conveyed Arase’s concerns in a press release on Thursday, highlighting the urgent need to address the alleged unethical conduct of the Special Police Constabulary. Reports indicate instances of highhandedness, extortion, and unprofessional behavior, prompting the commission to engage with the Inspector General of Police to revamp the organization and its operations.
“The commission is already in contact with the Inspector General of Police on the need to overhaul the organisation and operations of the outfit,” the statement reads. “There have been several reports of unprofessional conduct by officers of the outfit, a quasi-police formation created to assist in community policing.”
The PSC calls for a distinct set of uniforms for Special Police Constabulary officers, making them easily distinguishable from regular police officers. This, the commission argues, would enable better monitoring of their conduct and prevent the Nigeria Police Force from being unfairly associated with any misconduct by the constabulary.
“The commission further calls for the disbandment of the outfit in states where they are not salaried and taken care of,” the statement adds. The PSC criticizes states that establish security outfits without providing adequate funding, emphasizing the negative impact on innocent citizens who often face forceful extortion and intimidation.
Dr. Solomon Arase, the retired Inspector General of Police and current chairman of the commission, stresses the collaboration with the Nigeria Police Force leadership to cleanse the organization and operations of the Special Police Constabulary. He emphasizes the urgency of differentiating the constabulary from regular police officers and establishing clear rules of engagement and uniforms.
