FG Sacks 15 Correctional Service Officers, Demotes 59, Gives Reasons

The Federal Government has taken disciplinary action against 74 personnel of the Nigeria Correctional Service (NCoS), dismissing 15 and demoting 59 others over acts of misconduct and indiscipline. The measures followed the conclusion of 224 disciplinary cases brought before the Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Services Board (CDCFIB) under the Ministry of Interior.

According to a statement by the NCoS Public Relations Officer, Umar Abubakar, the cases were reviewed by the Board’s Disciplinary and General Purpose Committee after extensive investigations and due process. He said the board approved the sanctions in line with its resolve to uphold discipline and preserve the integrity of the Service.

Fifteen personnel were dismissed for serious violations of service regulations, while 59 officers had their ranks reduced for confirmed breaches of professional standards. In addition, 42 personnel received written warnings as corrective measures. Sixteen officers were cleared of all allegations, while seven others remain on suspension pending the outcome of ongoing investigations.

In one instance, an officer was suspended and recommended for handover to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for prosecution due to the severity of the offence. Eight personnel were compulsorily retired, and one officer had his rank reversed with an order to refund all earnings received while wrongly holding that rank.

The statement added that the Board, chaired by Minister of Interior Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, reaffirmed its commitment to enforcing high ethical and professional standards. Controller General of Corrections Sylvester Nwacuhe assured that disciplinary actions would continue to be carried out fairly and in strict compliance with existing rules and procedures, while calling for public cooperation in maintaining discipline within the Service.