The Police Service Commission (PSC) has introduced a whistle blowing policy aimed at addressing malpractice in the recruitment processes into the Nigeria Police Force. The Commission said the move is part of its commitment to ensuring transparency, fairness, and a merit-based system in the recruitment of police officers across the country.
According to the Commission, the policy provides a secure channel for members of the public to report any form of corruption, fraud, or malpractice noticed during the recruitment process. It explained that the goal “is to uphold the principles of good governance and strengthen our national security by ensuring only the most qualified and upright candidates are enlisted.”
The Commission added that its actions are guided by the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu. Under Priority Area 2 on national security, it stated, “we believe that a credible, professional, and trustworthy Police Force is the cornerstone of national security and that reporting malpractices is a patriotic duty that directly contributes to a safer Nigeria.”
Highlighting Priority Area 8 on rule of law and anti-corruption, the Commission stressed, “we are committed to the rule of law and a zero-tolerance stance on corruption. This policy empowers every citizen to act as a watchdog, ensuring that the recruitment process is free from bribery, fraud, and unethical influence.”
It outlined specific malpractice issues that Nigerians are encouraged to report. These include solicitation or acceptance of bribes in exchange for recruitment slots, manipulation of results from written, physical or medical tests, falsification of credentials such as age or certificates with the knowledge of officials, sexual harassment or extortion of candidates, inclusion of ghost candidates, impersonation during examinations or screenings, and any other form of unethical conduct by recruitment officials or middlemen.
For effective reporting, the Commission advised complainants to provide as much detail as possible. “You can also report anonymously, but providing your contact details will assist if further information is needed,” it said.
The Commission also released dedicated reporting lines: 08065265651, 08059544355, 09159329404, and 08035866677. It said SMS and text messages should include details of the incident, location, date, and individuals involved. Reports can also be submitted through email at info@psc.gov.ng, via its website at www.psc.gov.ng, on X @PSCNigeria, and on Facebook @PSCNigeria.
It assured Nigerians that all whistle-blowers will be protected under Nigerian laws. “The Commission is committed to protecting the identity and welfare of individuals who report in good faith. All reports will be treated with utmost confidentiality. Whistle-blowers will be protected from victimisation, intimidation, or retaliation,” it said.
On its commitment to action, the Commission declared, “every credible report will be promptly, independently, and thoroughly investigated and will take decisive disciplinary and legal action against any individual found culpable of recruitment malpractices.”
The Commission called on Nigerians to support the initiative, insisting that “your courage can make the difference” in building a better and more professional Nigeria Police Force.