Cross section of Special Constabulary Police of Nigeria Officers
…urges FG to implement the National Industrial Court (NIC) Judgment
The Special Constabulary Police of Nigeria (SCPN) has called on the Federal Government to improve the welfare benefits of its officers’ and grant it due recognition and integration in the Nigeria Police Force.
The body also called for the immediate implementation of the National Industrial Court (NIC) Judgment, delivered on November 20, 2024, which affirmed the entitlements, rights, and lawful status of the Special Constabulary Police officers.
This information was contained in a statement signed by the Chairman, National Press Conference Committee, SCPN, Prince Gbemisola Obadeyi and made available to Compasseyemedia on Sunday.
The statement read: “In a powerful display of unity and resolve, the Special Constabulary Police of Nigeria (SCPN) is demanding justice, recognition, and proper welfare for officers who have served selflessly for over five years in ensuring peace, maintaining order, and supporting national security.”
In his remark, Obadeyi emphasized that the conference held in Abuja was not a protest, but a lawful call for justice and recognition of the Special Constabulary Police of Nigeria (SCPN).
SCP Obadeyi stated: “We are not lawbreakers; we are law enforcers. We are not agitators; we are patriots. We are trained officers, not volunteers. We have been serving faithfully, and we demand our recognition and rightful compensation.”
Earlier, the Commander General, SCPN, SCP Editi George expressed deep disappointment that despite the NIC judgment, officers have not seen the fulfillment of their entitlements, including welfare, recognition, and integration within the Nigeria Police Force.
He highlighted the sacrifices made by Special Constabulary Police Officers across Nigeria, who have served under harsh conditions, often without pay and formal recognition.
According to him, “For over five years, we have stood guard in communities across Nigeria. We have worked beside the Nigeria Police Force, yet our service has been overlooked,”
SCP George, however, called on the Federal Government to act on the judgment of NIC and ensure that the Special Constabulary Police is fully integrated into the Nigeria Police structure.
He reaffirmed the commitment of the SCPN to the rule of law, stressing that, while they would not resort to violence, continuous demands of their rights and privileges would be uphold peacefully and lawfully.
Highlights of SCPN demands
According to the statement, the Commander General outlined the following demands, “We call on the Federal Government to immediately implement the NIC judgement (20th November 2024), including the payment of overdue entitlements and official recognition.
“Grant SCPN full integration into the Nigeria Police Force as a recognised and legitimate part of the policing community as SCPN officers have been integral to community policing efforts nationwide.
“We demand the full compensation for services already rendered over the past five years, including insurance, salaries, and other welfare provisions in accordance with judgement of National industrial Court.
“We seek the establishment of a framework for sustainable dialogue between SCPN leadership and the Federal Government to ensure policy inclusion and the ongoing welfare of SCPN officers,” the statement read.
The Commander General explained that the delay in fulfilling the court’s judgment is undermining the morale of officers who have worked tirelessly and put their lives on the line.
SCP George reiterated the body’s commitment to a peaceful dialogue, stated that, “We have not resorted to protest, but we cannot remain silent when justice is denied. We will continue to engage peacefully until our rightful recognition and compensation are achieved.
“Despite the years of waiting, the Special Constabulary Police reaffirmed their commitment to the safety and security of the Nigerian people. We remain determined to continue working in collaboration with the Nigeria Police Force, upholding peace, and ensuring national security, even as we seek justice.”
The body held a press conference at the NUJ press centre, Abuja were members of the SCPN National Executive Council, State Commanders, were in attendance.
About the Author
