By Ebinum Samuel
The Police Service Commission has announced a whistle blowing Policy on malpractice in the recruitment processes into the Nigeria Police Force.
The Commission says it is committed to ensuring that recruitment into the Nigeria Police Force is transparent, merit based and fair stressing that the Policy establishes a secure channel for Members of the Public to report any corruption, fraud, or malpractice observed during Police recruitment process.
It noted that its goal “is to uphold the principles of good governance and strenghten our national security by ensuring only the most qualified and upright candidates are enlisted”
The Commission’s actions are guided by the core principles, aligned with the Renewed Hope Agenda of Mr President which states : Priority Area 2 (National Security) “we believe that a credible, professional, and trustworthy Police Force is the cornerstone of national security and that reporting malpractices is a patriotic duty that directly contributes to a safer Nigeria”
Priority Area 8 (Rule of law and Anti Corruption) also states “we are committed to the rule of law and a zero-tolerance stance on corruption. According to the spokesman of the Commission, Ikechukwu Ani, this Policy empowers every citizen to act as a watchdog, ensuring that the recruitment process is free from bribery, Fraud, and unethical influence”
The Commission said Nigerians are encouraged to report any of the following; solicitation or acceptance of bribes (cash, gifts, favours) in exchange for recruitment slots or preferential treatment; manipulation of results (written, physical or medical tests); falsification of credentials (age, certificate, state of origin) with the knowledge of officials; sexual harassment or extortion of candidates ; Ghost candidates or inclusion of names not part of the official process; impersonation during examinations or screenings and any other form of undue influence or unethical conduct by recruitment officials or middlemen.
The Commission enjoins persons who wish to send complaints “to ensure your report is effective and “please provide as much detail as possible, “you can also report anonymously, but providing your contact details will assist if further information is needed”.
The Commission has also provided dedicated lines; 08065265651, 08059544355 09159329404 and 08035866677.
SMS and text messages should include details of incident, location, date, individuals involved and sent to Email: info@psc.gov.ng
Website: www.psc.gov.ng
X: @PSCNigeria
Facebook: @PSCNigeria
The Commission is committed to protecting the identity and welfare of individuals who report in good faith. All reports will be treated with utmost confidentiality. Whistle-blowers will be protected from victimisation, intimidation or retaliation as provided by relevant Nigerian laws.
The Commission’s commitment is that “every credible report will be promptly, independently and thoroughly investigated and will take decisive disciplinary and legal action against any individual found culpable of recruitment malpractices.
The Commission enjoins Nigerians to help it build a better, more professional Nigeria Police Force insisting that “your courage can make the difference”