IN a major disciplinary sweep, the Federal Government has dismissed 15 personnel and demoted 59 others in the Nigeria Correctional Service (NCoS) over various acts of misconduct, violation of service rules, and unprofessional conduct.
This was revealed by the Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Services Board (CDCFIB), which reviewed 224 disciplinary cases involving officers across the country, under the supervision of the Ministry of Interior.
According to a statement released by the Public Relations Officer of the NCoS, Umar Abubakar made available to News Point Nigeria on Thursday, the actions followed comprehensive investigations and recommendations by the Board’s Disciplinary and General Purpose Committee (BDGPC).
“A total of 15 personnel were dismissed from the Service for serious misconduct and violation of Service regulations,” the statement read.
Abubakar noted that:
59 officers were demoted for breaching professional standards.
42 others received written warnings.
16 personnel were cleared of wrongdoing and exonerated.
7 officers remain suspended pending investigations into their conduct.
In a particularly severe case, one officer was suspended and recommended for prosecution by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) due to the magnitude of the offence.
Additionally:
8 officers were compulsorily retired.
1 officer had his rank reversed and was ordered to refund all salaries earned while occupying the rank wrongfully.
The Board, chaired by the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunde Ojo, reaffirmed its zero-tolerance stance on misconduct and reiterated its commitment to upholding ethical standards, discipline, and accountability across the correctional system.
Controller General of Corrections, Sylvester Nwacuhe, also assured Nigerians that all disciplinary actions are conducted fairly and in accordance with existing laws and procedures.
“We are committed to cleaning the system and ensuring that those tasked with enforcing discipline are held to the highest standards themselves,” the Controller General stated.