Police Service Commission: We Lack Authority To Discipline IGP

The Police Service Commission (PSC) said on Sunday that it lacks the authority to discipline Ibrahim Idris, inspector-general of police (IGP).

In a statement signed by Ikechukwu Ani, spokesman of the PSC, the commission said the constitution did not grant it the powers to discipline the IGP, even when he refuses to implement its decisions.

IGP Idris has come under intense criticism lately, owing to allegations levelled against him by the Senator representing Bauchi Central, Isah Hamma Misau.

Senator Misau alleged that the Inspector-General of Police was engaging in promotion racketeering and taking bribe as much as N15m before posting Commissioners of Police and State Mobile Commanders.

He said the Police Boss allegedly recieved N10bn monthly from oil companies and other private individuals who enjoy special protection from the security agency, as well as having an illicit affairs with female officers and arranging secret marriage with one ASP Amina.

However, in a statement released today, the PSC said: “It is common knowledge that the constitution which gave the commission the powers to appoint, promote and discipline also did not extend the powers to discipline an IGP who refuses to implement decisions on these powers.

“The commission under the present leadership of Sir, Dr. Mike Mbama Okiro, a retired IGP, 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 IGP 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.

“On postings of Command CPs, the Commission naturally allows the IGP who works with these officers and who knows their operational capabilities to recommend to it.

“And on special promotions, the commission has given the IGP guidelines that should govern his recommendations. Meanwhile, all recommendations to the commission on this issue has been put on hold until he complies with these guidelines.

“The commission however can do more with a constitutional provision that allows it protect its decisions. It is also common knowledge that most times its decisions are not implemented by the IGP since constitutionally the commission cannot discipline the IGP.”