The Chairman of the Police Service Commission (PSC), Deputy Inspector-General of Police, Hashima Argungu (rtd), has voiced concerns over unethical practices by policemen in the South East.
Speaking at the South East Stakeholders Summit on Peace and Security in Enugu on Friday, DIG Argungu highlighted several areas where police conduct had strayed from professional standards.
The PSC Chairman noted that police roadblocks had been converted into extortion points and that officers were improperly involving themselves in civil matters and human rights abuses. He lamented the pervasive corruption within the police force in the region.
“The Commission has observed that roadblocks, instead of ensuring safety, have become toll gates where road users are forced, under threat, to pay money. We are also aware of severe human rights violations perpetrated by some police officers who, despite our warnings, continue to interfere in civil matters for financial gain,” Argungu stated.
He stressed the need for police officers to refrain from involving themselves in land disputes, debt collections, marital issues, and other civil matters, urging them to allow the courts to handle such cases.
“Despite repeated warnings, the allure of dirty money has led officers to twist simple civil issues into threats to life, giving cases a different coloration. Often, these disgruntled officers write petitions to extort money from individuals, only to later pose as judges to resolve the matters,” he added.
DIG Argungu assured that the PSC would take decisive actions against corrupt police activities. “The Commission warns that it will no longer tolerate such acts of indiscipline and human rights abuses. Disciplinary actions, including dismissals, will be taken against errant officers. The South East must be rid of these corrupt officers who refuse to adhere to professional boundaries,” he declared.
The PSC Chairman called on civil society organizations and the Nigeria Bar Association (NBA) to collaborate in addressing these challenges. “I urge the Nigeria Bar Association and Civil Society Organizations in the South East to join us in the battle to restore peace and security in the zone and ensure the protection of citizens’ human rights.”
Argungu concluded by affirming the PSC’s commitment to partnering with stakeholders to foster a Nigeria where the rule of law prevails.
