PSC Tells Why Promotion Examination Is Compulsory For Senior Police Officers

The Police Service Commission (PSC) on Friday said it would sustain its new policy of compulsory promotion examinations for senior police officers, insisting that the exercise is designed to restore credibility, transparency and merit to the Force.

The Commission, which continued its promotion examinations for senior officers at its Corporate Headquarters in Jabi, Abuja, subjected six hundred and thirty Deputy Superintendents of Police (DSPs) recommended for elevation to the rank of Superintendent to written tests at the Parry Osayande Auditorium.

Declaring the exercise open, retired Supreme Court Justice Paul Adamu Galumje, who represents the judiciary on the Commission, said the initiative would help officers strengthen their mental capacity for effective service delivery. According to him, the new process will determine the future of the officers, adding that the PSC would continue to encourage policemen and women to seek knowledge and improve themselves.

Also speaking, DIG Taiwo Lakanu (rtd), Chairman of the Commission’s Standing Committee on Police Matters, described the exams as timely and necessary, stressing that they would improve the image of the Nigeria Police Force. He lamented what he called a “systemic rot” in the institution, noting that the absence of promotion examinations over the years had weakened professionalism. “Police is the only security agency where there is no promotion examination. We have decided to do exams; if you fail, you fail. We will continue with the exams, and it will help the image of the Police in the eyes of the public,” he stated.

Lakanu further warned the officers against offering bribes to any staff of the Commission, warning that anyone caught would be dismissed from the process. “Please don’t embarrass us. Don’t give, our staff cannot help you,” he admonished.

The examinations and interviews are expected to continue next week with the Commissioner’s cadre, while a plenary meeting of the Commission is scheduled for later this month.

Chairman of the PSC, DIG Hashimu Argungu (rtd), reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to timely, credible and transparent promotions. He stressed that promotion must be earned and justifiable, insisting that the examinations would bring credibility and respect to officers donning new ranks. He added that the Police of the future should be one that can work with minimal supervision and deliver without undue influence.