We Have No Powers To Discipline IG – Police Commission

The Police Service Commission (PSC) says it has no power to discipline the Inspector-General of Police.

The Police Service Commission (PSC) has the constitutional mandate to appoint, promote and discipline officers of the Nigeria Police Force but not the Inspector-General of Police.

This has been highlighted because of the allegation made against the Police boss regarding his relationship with serving female officers.

A statement by Ikechukwu Ani, Media, Press and Public Relations officer of PSC, made the clarifications.

“The Commission also wishes to state that its powers to do this does not cover the office of the Inspector-General of Police.

“The Powers of the Commission are stated in paragraph 30, Part 1 of the third Schedule of the 1999 Constitution,” he said.

Ani says the IG reports to higher authorities.

“The Commission under the leadership of Mike Okiro, is not a mere rubber stamp Agency.

“It carries out its duties diligently and in accordance with set out guidelines.

“It also in the discharge of this duties, takes the IG into consideration as the operational head of the Nigeria Police Force.

“The 1999 Constitution, part 111, (supplemental) (b), 215 (2) states; The Nigeria Police Force shall be under the command of the Inspector-General of Police,” he said.

He said that on postings of Command Commissioners of Police, the PSC allows the IG who works with these officers to make recommendations.

He advised that in the current move to sanitise the Nigeria Police Force, efforts should not be wasted in unnecessary witch hunts.

“The current Commission will continue to work with Mr President to give the nation the police force that will be the envy of every Nigerian.

“Appointments, promotions and disciplinary matters will continue to be guided by laid down rules and regulations,” he said.