The Police Service Commission (PSC), in collaboration with the International Committee of the Red Cross, has launched a specialized training workshop aimed at reinforcing human rights-based policing standards among its staff. The event commenced on Tuesday, May 7, 2024, in Abuja, underscoring the PSC’s commitment to improving police oversight and accountability in Nigeria.
Dr. Solomon Arase, the Chairman of the Commission and retired Inspector General of Police, who officially opened the workshop, emphasized the critical need for this initiative. He highlighted that the effectiveness of the PSC in fulfilling its oversight responsibilities is heavily dependent on the staff’s expertise in managing police operations and ensuring accountability.
Speaking through his Special Assistant, ACP Ogbonna Nwota, Dr. Arase expressed that the training session is crucial for the PSC staff to acquire necessary knowledge on international standards and best practices in policing. “Our ability to perform our statutory duties hinges on our understanding and implementation of effective oversight mechanisms,” said Arase.
The workshop addresses several pressing issues that the Nigerian Police Force faces, including corruption, bias in investigations, and frequent human rights violations. By focusing on these areas, the PSC aims to foster a culture of transparency, responsibility, and adherence to legal standards within the police force.
Dr. Arase urged all attendees to fully engage in the learning process, stating the importance of being open to “learn, re-learn, and unlearn” various aspects of policing and human rights as applicable to the contemporary societal context. He also took the opportunity to thank the International Council of Red Cross for their support and collaboration in organizing the training program.
“This partnership is instrumental in driving forward our goal to rebirth a police force that is accountable, responsible, and compliant with global best practices,” Dr. Arase remarked.
The training workshop is set to continue over several days, aiming to equip the PSC staff with comprehensive skills and knowledge to enhance their oversight capabilities, ensuring that the police force operates within the bounds of law and respects human rights.