Some of those aspiring to join the Nigeria Police in Anambra State are facing a significant hurdle in the ongoing nationwide recruitment process: obtaining police officers in the required rank to serve as guarantors.
While some managed to overcome this obstacle, they stressed that it was not an easy task. They explained that only police officers with the rank of Superintendent of Police (SP) and above were deemed acceptable as guarantors, and many officers approached were hesitant, fearing potential misconduct.
For instance, Arinze Oyiudo, a male applicant from Awka, recounted his experience at the state police command headquarters in Amawbia, where the recruitment exercise is taking place. He mentioned encountering challenges convincing some police officers of the required rank to sign as guarantors.
“We were told that two police officers from the rank of SP (Superintendent of Police) and above are the ones that will sign as guarantors for us. But some of them will not agree to sign for you when you go to them. But, I have gotten two officers who signed for me,” he shared.
Apart from securing guarantors, Oyiudo highlighted other requirements demanded by the recruitment team, including the National Identity Number (NIN), birth certificate, medical fitness report, secondary school certificate (WAEC or NECO), and a Local Government identification letter. The team also verified applicants’ height.
Miss Ubadiah Karima, from Nzam in Anambra-West local government area, echoed similar challenges in finding willing senior police officers to sign as guarantors. However, she maintained that no officer demanded financial gratification or special favours for their cooperation.
Otu Patricia, another female applicant, shared a smoother experience, stating that the recruitment process at the conference hall didn’t pose any hardship for her. She submitted her credentials, underwent verification, and the recruitment team collected her file, allowing her to proceed.
Observations by LEADERSHIP WEEKEND indicated a well-organised recruitment exercise at the state police command headquarters in Amawbia, with separate teams from the state police command and the Force Headquarters, Abuja, ensuring a thorough vetting process for applicants.
