State police: PSC chairman, committee meet over implementation
Chairman of the Police Service Commission (PSC), retired Deputy Inspector-General of Police Hashimu Salihu Argungu, has called for a comprehensive review of the underlying challenges affecting the Nigeria Police Force
Chairman of the Police Service Commission (PSC), retired Deputy Inspector-General of Police Hashimu Salihu Argungu, has called for a comprehensive review of the underlying challenges affecting the Nigeria Police Force as the country weighs the establishment of state police.
Argungu made the remark while receiving members of 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 said it visited the PSC to draw from the board’s institutional memory and professional experience, noting the commission’s central role in Nigeria’s policing framework.
Ogunsakin described the committee’s assignment as a demanding one, stressing that its success would depend on the guidance and insights of the commission.
“We cannot do it alone without tapping into the wisdom of the PSC. We are here to draw from your wealth of knowledge regarding the task before us to review the landscape, structure and foundation that will assist the Nigeria Police Force to move forward,” he said.
He also described the PSC chairman as a “fountain of knowledge.”
Read Also: State Police: We are almost there
Responding, Argungu outlined a step-by-step approach toward the effective implementation of state policing. He urged the committee to first identify and address the root causes that gave rise to the demand for state police.
“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.
According to a statement issued on Wednesday night by the Head, Protocol and Public Affairs, Torty Kalu, the PSC boss 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.
