President Muhammadu Buhari has appointed former Inspector-General of Police, Musiliu Smith, as Chairman of the Police Service Commission (PSC). Smith is to succeed former IGP, Mike Okiro.
The president also sought the confirmation of Clara Ogunbiyi and former Assistant Inspector-General of Police, Lawal Bawa, as full-time commissioners of the PSC. Four other members of the commission were also nominated.
Buhari’s request was contained in a letter read by the Senate President, Bukola Saraki, shortly after the plenary started on Thursday.
“In compliance with the provisions of section 153 (1) and 154(1) of the 1999 constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, as amended, I write to forward for confirmation by the senate the underlisted names as the chairman and members of Police Service Commission (PSC). I attach herewith their CVs.
1. Musliu Smith CFR (chairman, South West)
2. Justice Clara Ogunbiyi (Full-time commissioner, North East)
3. Lawal Bawa AIG Rt, CON (Full-time commissioner, North West)
4. Mohammed Najatu (Member, North West)
5. Braimoh Austin (Member, South South)
6. Barr. Rommy Mom (Member, North Central)
7. Dr Nkemka Jombo-Ofo (Member, South East)
“While thanking immensely, in anticipation of the early consideration and confirmation of the above appointments by the distinguished senators, please accept, Mr Senate president, the assurance of my highest consideration,” the letter read.
Musiliu Smith was appointed the Inspector General of Police on May 29, 1999.
He was asked to retire by then President Olusegun Obasanjo in March 2002 after the Nigerian Union of Policemen called a partially successful strike on February 1, 2002.
