Correctional service dismisses 15 officers, demotes 59 after disciplinary review

The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has dismissed 15 officers and demoted 59 others after a disciplinary review by the Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Services Board (CDCFIB).

The sanctions followed the Board’s consideration of 231 disciplinary cases presented by its Disciplinary and General Purpose Committee (BDGPC), after months of investigation and internal review.

In a statement on Friday, Umar Abubakar, spokesperson of the NCoS, said the measures were part of efforts to enforce discipline and uphold professional standards in the Service.

The board also approved the compulsory retirement of eight personnel and the suspension of seven others pending further investigation.

One officer was recommended for prosecution by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over the severity of their alleged offence.

“A total of 15 personnel were dismissed from the Service for serious misconduct and violation of Service regulations,” the statement reads.

“Additionally, 59 officers had their ranks reduced as a result of confirmed breaches of professional standards, while 42 personnel were issued written warning letters as a corrective measure.

“The Board also exonerated 16 personnel who were found not guilty of the allegations, and seven staff are currently on suspension to ascertain their level of involvement in an ongoing investigation.

“In one case, an officer was suspended from duty and recommended for handover to the EFCC for prosecution due to the gravity of the offence. Furthermore, eight personnel were compulsorily retired from the Service, and one officer had his rank reversed with a directive to refund all earnings received while wrongly holding the rank.”

The CDCFIB, chaired by interior minister Olubunmi Tunde Ojo, reiterated its commitment to maintaining high ethical and professional standards.

Sylvester Nwacuhe, controller-general of corrections, said disciplinary actions would continue to be handled with fairness and in strict compliance with extant rules and procedures.