The federal government, through Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Services Board (CDCFIB) has taken disciplinary action against 231 personnel of the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), following a series of investigations and recommendations by its Disciplinary and General Purpose Committee (BDGPC).
In a statement issued Thursday in Abuja, by the Deputy Controller of Corrections and Public Relations Officer, Umar Abubakar, confirmed that the Board has approved a range of sanctions “in line with its commitment to enforcing discipline and upholding the integrity of the Service.”
The statement said a total of 15 officers were dismissed from the Service for serious misconduct and violation of Service regulations.
In addition to the dismissals, the Board also approved rank reduction for 59 personnel, written warnings for 42 others, suspensions for 7 officers pending further investigations and compulsory retirement for 8 officers.
One particularly severe case involved an officer who was suspended from duty and recommended for handover to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for prosecution.
“This action underscores the seriousness with which the Board treats issues of corruption and professional misconduct,” the PRO added.
Also noteworthy, 16 personnel were exonerated after investigations revealed no wrongdoing.
“The Board carefully reviewed all cases presented and ensured due process was followed. Those found not guilty were cleared of all allegations,” Abubakar emphasized.
One officer who had wrongly held a higher rank was ordered to refund all earnings accrued during the period, with his rank formally reversed.
“The CDCFIB, under the leadership of the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunde Ojo, reaffirmed its zero-tolerance policy on misconduct. Dr. Ojo, through the Board’s statement, stressed the importance of integrity across all security agencies.
“This administration is determined to maintain the highest ethical and professional standards in all services under the Ministry of Interior,” the statement read.
The statement said Controller General of Corrections, Sylvester Nwacuhe, also weighed in, assuring the public that the Service remains committed to fairness and accountability.
“Disciplinary actions will continue to be handled with fairness, transparency, and in strict compliance with extant rules and procedures.
“We urge the general public to continue to support the Correctional Service as we strengthen internal discipline and professional standards.”