By Ebinum Samuel
The police Service Commission has called on Nigerians to give peace a chance and support the Federal Government in its determined efforts to improve the living conditions of its citizenry. The Commission notes the need for Nigerians to appreciate the efforts of Government in rebuilding the fractured Nigerian nation and avoid the temptation of falling prey to merchants of war, stressing that what the Present Government needs now is the support of the Nigerian people to consolidate on its efforts to deepen democracy and bring prosperity across the nation.Chairman of the Commission, DIG Hashimu Argungu rtd, said the Commission is happy with the Inspector General of Police, Dr. Olukayode Egbetokun for his proactive measures to ensure a non violent protests.DIG Argungu said the IGP’s order to Commanders of Police Tactical teams to observe the principles of professionalism and adherence to the rule of law in managing public demonstration was heart warming and reassuring but warned that this democratic gesture should not be taken for granted.The PSC Chairman re-echoed the warning of the Inspector-General of Police that while the right to peaceful protest is a fundamental democratic right, “it is imperative the Police ensure these protests do not escalate to violence “.He noted that the IGP’s decision to withdraw Officers from extra policing services was in the right direction to ensure that more men are deployed and fully prepared to provide immediate support to prevent escalation of violence.
Mr Ikechukwu Ani, Head, Press and Public Relations said the PSC Chairman called on Police Officers in the country to rise to the occasion and defend the nation’s fragile democracy. He said the Commission will always reward hard work and commitment to national security and invited the Police Officers to exhibit the greatest sense of professionalism and competence at this time of national threat adding that the public should rather support the Police to keep the nation united and progressive.