Calls for Review as Recruitment List Flooded with Non-Applicants
The Nigeria Police Force has raised serious concerns regarding irregularities and alleged corruption in the 2022/23 Police Constables Recruitment Exercise. Following numerous complaints from candidates and stakeholders, it was revealed that the recruitment process was significantly compromised, leading to an urgent call for a thorough review.
The alarm was sounded after a careful scrutiny of the list of successful candidates. Several alarming issues were discovered:
Firstly, numerous individuals listed as successful candidates did not even apply for the recruitment. This revelation has raised eyebrows about the authenticity and transparency of the entire process. Such irregularities suggest a breakdown in the procedural checks and balances that are supposed to govern the recruitment exercise.
Secondly, candidates who failed either the Computer Based Test (CBT) or the physical screening were included in the list. This not only undermines the integrity of the recruitment process but also demoralizes genuine candidates who diligently followed the procedure and met all the requirements.
Thirdly, some candidates who were disqualified after being found medically unfit still appeared on the list of successful candidates. This raises serious concerns about the due diligence carried out during the medical screening phase and highlights potential lapses in the verification processes.
Particularly troubling are the allegations of financial misconduct and corrupt practices. Reports suggest that unqualified and untrainable individuals were shortlisted due to these corrupt activities. This development is seen as a severe blow to the credibility of the recruitment process, with accusations that financial dealings influenced the selection of candidates.
On June 10, 2024, the Inspector General of Police formally objected to the published list in a letter to the Chairman of the Police Service Commission (PSC). In the letter, the IGP emphasized that while the PSC has the legal authority to recruit for the police, this power does not extend to including unqualified individuals. The police, who bear the brunt of recruitment failures, face subsequent criticism for inefficiency when these recruits underperform or cause issues within the force.
The Nigeria Police Force has therefore dissociated itself from the controversial list and has called for a transparent and credible review of the recruitment process. The IGP's reaction underscores the urgent need to restore integrity and confidence in the recruitment exercise.
The background to this controversy includes a Supreme Court ruling that affirmed the PSC’s authority to recruit for the police. Following this ruling, the PSC established a Joint Recruitment Board, led by a PSC Commissioner and the Deputy Inspector General of Police in charge of Training and Development as its Secretary. However, the Board was reportedly sidelined and unable to fulfill its mandate, leading to the release of the final list without its consent.
The Nigeria Police Force demands a comprehensive review to ensure that only qualified, competent, and trainable candidates are recruited. This aligns with the vision of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's administration for police reform, emphasizing the need for a capable and professional police force.
Prospective recruits have been assured by the NPF that their commitment is to a fair and successful recruitment process. The police force recognizes the hardships and rigorous screening exercises that genuine candidates have undergone. The NPF is dedicated to ensuring that the recruitment process is not only transparent but also fruitful, ultimately benefiting the Nigeria Police Force and the nation as a whole.
ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the Force Public Relations Officer, reiterated the commitment of the police to uphold the integrity of the recruitment process. "We are not unconcerned about the plights and ordeals of prospective recruits. Our goal is to ensure that the process is thoroughly reviewed and stands successful for the betterment of the Nigeria Police and, by extension, the country," he stated.
The ongoing situation highlights the need for stringent oversight and reforms in the recruitment process to prevent future occurrences of such irregularities. It also underscores the importance of maintaining the highest standards of integrity and professionalism in the recruitment of police personnel.
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