Politics
CSOs Advocate For Reinstatement Of PSC Chair, Arase Amidst Controversy
CSOs Advocate For Reinstatement Of PSC Chair, Arase Amidst Controversy....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) have strongly criticized the dismissal of retired Inspector General of Police Solomon Arase from his role as chairman of the Police Service Commission (PSC). In a joint statement signed by multiple groups including RULAAC, NOPRIN Foundation, and Open Society on Justice Reform Project, among others, these organizations expressed deep concern over President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s decision to replace Arase with retired Deputy Inspector-General of Police Hashimu Argungu without providing any reasons for the removal.
The CSOs highlighted that this action appears to violate established legal procedures as outlined in Section 5, subsection 1 of the PSC Act, which requires specific conditions for removal that were not met in this instance. They emphasized that such unilateral decisions undermine the independence and effectiveness of the Commission, essential for its mandate without undue political interference.
Furthermore, the statement lamented that this controversy comes at a critical time when significant efforts are underway to reform the police force, including substantial investments in training and recent recruitment drives. Despite recent progress, the CSOs expressed concern about the ongoing uncertainty surrounding leadership changes and their potential impact on these reform efforts.
Calling for respect for the rule of law and due process, the CSOs urged President Tinubu to reconsider the removal of Arase and promptly constitute the Board of the Commission in accordance with legal provisions. They also appealed to the National Assembly to exercise its oversight role to ensure accountability and adherence to legal frameworks, stressing that such actions are crucial for maintaining public trust and strengthening democratic institutions in Nigeria.
