Buhari asks Senate to confirm Smith PSC Chairman

 President Muhammadu Buhari on Thursday nominated a former Inspector-General of Police, Mr Musiliu Smith, as Chairman of Police Service Commission (PSC).

In a letter to the Senate on the nomination, which was read at plenary by President of the Senate, Dr Bukola Saraki, Buhari also requested the confirmation of six other nominees as members of the commission.

The nominees are Justice Clara Ogunbiyi (Full-Time Commissioner) – North-East; Lawal Bawa (Full-Time Commissioner) – North-West; Muhammad Najatu (Member) – North-West, Braimoh Austin (Member) – South-South; Rommy Mom (Member) – North-Central and Dr Nkemka Jombo-Ofo (Member) – South-East.

Buhari cited sections 153 (1) and 154(1) of the 1999 Constitution(amended) for the nominations and urged the Senate to expedite action on the request to enable the nominees fill the vacuum in the commission.

“In compliance with the provisions of Section 153 (1) and 154(1) of the 1999 Constitution as amended, I write to forward for confirmation as chairman and members of Police Service Commission (PSC).

“I attach here, with their CVs,” the president’s letter stated.

Ruling on the request, Saraki directed the Committee on Police Affairs to conduct the screening of the nominees and report back in two weeks for further actions.

If confirmed, Smith will replace Mr Mike Okiro, who recently concluded his tenure as Chairman of the commission.