As divergent reactions trail the ongoing recruitment by the Nigeria Police Force in which more than 700,000 candidates applied for the 10,000 slots, an economist has said that the situation calls for sober reflection, while others described it as a reflection of the reality on ground.

The Nigeria Police had recently called for applications into the force, to strengthen its about 400,000 current strength. However, the force authorities were surprised to receive applications from more than 700,000 interested applicants for the available space of 10,000: more than 700 per cent in excess of their expectation.

Some Nigerians who spoke to News Express on the matter, said it was a good thing the figure was made public, so that the country’s leaders can appreciate the fact that there are lots of unemployed people roaming the streets.

Chioma Nze, an economist, said the situation calls for sober reflection. “If Nigerians who are willing to work can’t get jobs, then there is a problem.” This, according to her, is what the exercise has revealed.

She added: “My fear is that if nothing urgent is done some of this people can take to crime, at least, to escape hunger; which we do not pray for. I honestly hope that people in government, who are responsible for the fixing of the nation, are taking note.”

Paul Abarti, an educationist, is alarmed by the figure. He posited that government has to come up with some kind of urgent plan that will help to mitigate the unemployment train, which is fast rising. This, according to him, is indicated by the number of applicants seeking employment into the police force.

Ebere Eze-Ebekwe, on his part, believed that the exercise showed a failed state. According to him, any nation that cannot offer employment to its citizens cannot be said to be living up to its responsibilities. He, however, blame the unemployment situation in the country to improper national planning.

But, Louis Chukwudi, an engineer, disagreed. He said the number of applicants revealed the extent of patriotism by the people to serve their father land. He said: “I refuse to accept that it is all about unemployment, I think part of it has to do with patriotism – a call to serve.”

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