The Police Service Commission (PSC) has denied the allegation of corruption leveled against it by the Inspector General of Police with regards to the recruitment of 10,000 constables into the Nigeria Police Force.

The IGP, Kayode Egbetokun, had in a statement signed by the Force Public Relations Officer, Muyiwa Ad, accused the PSC of mishandling the recruitment exercise.

However, the Joint Union of the PSC in a statement on Saturday, dismissed the claims made the IGP, as sheer blackmail.

The unions stated that the commission derived the power to recruit policemen from the 1999 Constitution and its 2001 Establishment Act.

“This was unequivocally reiterated, interpreted, and affirmed by the Supreme Court judgement of July 11, 2023. As such, the PSC is the sole executive body responsible for appointing qualified Nigerians into the Nigeria Police Force (NPF)

“In line with our commitment to democratic principles, responsibility, inclusiveness, and transparency, the Commission has consistently engaged other relevant bodies, including the NPF, in the recruitment process.

“Despite our collaborative approach, we will not be swayed by any form of blackmail or threats, as exemplified by the recent press release issued by the Inspector-General of Police and the NPF.

“This release, with reference number CZ.5300/FPRD/FHQ/ABJ/VOL.6/178, dated June 15, 2024, was signed by the Force Public Relations Officer on behalf of the Inspector-General of Police,” the unions added.

They thanked the public and all well meaning Nigerians for their support, and enjoined them to remain calm and avoid fake news and unnecessary panic over the false allegations.

“We promise to make a more elaborate press conference in the coming days, to lay to rest all salient issues, as we assure the integrity of the Police Service Commission that is just fair and equitable to all Nigerians.”