The Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Services Board has approved sanctions against dozens of officers of the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) in a sweeping disciplinary action aimed at reinforcing professionalism and accountability.
The move comes after a review of 231 disciplinary matters presented before the board.
A total of 15 employees were fired for serious misconduct and violations of service regulations, while 59 officers were demoted after being found guilty of violating professional standards.
In addition, 42 personnel received official warning letters as corrective action.
The board also granted eight officers’ compulsory retirement, exonerated 16 personnel, and suspended seven others awaiting the conclusion of ongoing investigations.
In a particularly egregious example, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) not only suspended but also suggested that one officer be prosecuted.
Another officer had his rank reversed and was ordered to return all wages and perks earned while holding the job wrongfully.
Umar Abubakar, the NCoS’s Public Relations Officer, announced these findings in a statement on Thursday, stressing that the sanctions were based on recommendations by the board’s Disciplinary and General Purpose Committee following lengthy investigations.
Umar said that the NCoS board, led by Minister of Interior Dr. Olubunmi Tunde-Ojo, reiterated its commitment to upholding high ethical and professional standards across all cadres.
While seeking collaboration, the Controller General of Corrections, Sylvester Nwakuche, promised the public that disciplinary actions will continue to be conducted fairly and in strict accordance with existing rules and procedures.
