The Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC) called on groups and individuals to stop attacking the Nigeria Police saying such action could impact negatively on the security agency’s efforts at executing its crime fighting and law enforcement mandates.
The PCRC argued that the minimum expectation from the public, in the face of growing threats to national security, was total support for the lead law enforcement agency.
The leadership of the Nigerian Police Force (NPF) have been under criticism over allegations of corrupt practices.
One of such allegations was raised by Senator Isah Misua, chairman, Senate Committee on Navy who alleged that some police officers paid as much as N2.5 million to get special promotion and postings.
As a result, several Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) have called for the resignation of the number one man in the NPF.
Speaking at a press conference in Abuja on Wednesday, national chairman of PCRC, Faruk Maiyama, said the group’s National Executive Committee (NEC), had resolved to continue to appeal for public support for the Police.
He maintained that, while not supporting corruption and other unethical conducts, it will not allow anyone or group to subject the Force and its management to blackmail or intimidation.
“The PCRC observed with dismay the recent attack on the leadership of the NPF, which is capable of tarnishing image of the Police Force as a whole and also affecting its security obligations of providing efficient and effective internal security, which will be great disservice to the nation.
“The PCRC couldn’t and will not remain silent, nor will it fold its arms in the face of wanton, deliberate and unbecoming smear campaigns against NPF.
“The PCRC wish to appeal to all Nigerians from whatever strata, status or privilege position to detest, the bringing down syndrome, but should promote peace, security, unity in diversity and progress of the nation,” Maiyama said.
STELLA ENENCHE, Abuja
