The International Human Rights Commission – Relief Fund Trust (IHRC-RFT), Nigeria, has called on the Police Service Commission and the Nigeria Police Force to reschedule the recruitment screening for 50,000 Police Constables, currently slated to begin on 9th March 2026.
In a statement signed on Friday by the Country Director, Amb. Abdullahi Bakoji Adamu, the organization said the current dates coincide with the holy month of Ramadan, a period of fasting and religious observance for many Muslim applicants.
The group warned that the physically demanding screening could place candidates at a disadvantage.
“We have received complaints from numerous applicants indicating that the screening period coincides with Ramadan,” the statement read.
“Given the physically demanding nature of the exercise, the current date may pose significant hardship and inadvertently disadvantage qualified applicants.”
IHRC-RFT cited both the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (1948) and the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended) while calling for the rescheduling.
The statement emphasized the principles of non-discrimination, equal access to public service, and the right to work.
“The Universal Declaration of Human Rights guarantees equality and access to work. Likewise, our Constitution upholds equality and the welfare of citizens. We respectfully urge that the screening exercise be shifted to a date after Ramadan to ensure inclusivity, fairness, and equal opportunity,” Amb. Adamu said.
The group also called on key stakeholders, including the Chairman of the Police Service Commission, the Inspector-General of Police, the Chairmen of the Senate and House Committees on Police Affairs, and the Minister of Interior, to intervene and adjust the timeline.
IHRC-RFT noted that even major national exercises, such as the 2027 General Elections were previously adjusted to accommodate Ramadan, demonstrating that rescheduling is both possible and responsible.
“Such a decision will reflect the spirit of equity, constitutional responsibility, and respect for religious diversity in our country,” the statement added.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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