The Federal Government has taken decisive action against misconduct within the Nigeria Correctional Service (NCoS), dismissing 15 personnel and demoting 59 others for various acts of indiscipline.
The announcement, made by the Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Services Board (CDCFIB), follows a comprehensive review of 224 disciplinary cases involving correctional officers across the country.
The disciplinary measures, based on recommendations from the Board’s Disciplinary and General Purpose Committee (BDGPC), underscore the government’s commitment to enforcing accountability and professionalism within the correctional system.
According to a statement by NCoS Public Relations Officer Umar Abubakar, the actions were carried out with strict adherence to due process after thorough investigations.
“The Board approved various disciplinary measures to enforce discipline and uphold the integrity of the Service,” Abubakar said.
“Fifteen personnel were dismissed for serious misconduct and violations of Service regulations, while 59 officers had their ranks reduced for confirmed breaches of professional standards.”
In addition to the dismissals and demotions, 42 officers received written warning letters as a corrective measure, while 16 personnel were exonerated after being cleared of allegations.
Seven staff members remain on suspension pending further investigation. Notably, one officer was suspended and recommended for prosecution by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) due to the severity of their offense.
The Board also ordered the compulsory retirement of eight personnel and reversed the rank of one officer, with a directive to refund all earnings received while wrongly holding the rank.
The CDCFIB, chaired by Minister of Interior Dr. Olubunmi Tunde Ojo, emphasized its resolve to maintain high ethical and professional standards within the NCoS.
Controller General of Corrections, Sylvester Nwacuhe reiterated that disciplinary actions would be administered fairly, in line with established rules, and called for public support to foster a more accountable correctional system.
The sweeping measures signal a broader effort to reform Nigeria’s correctional institutions, addressing longstanding concerns about misconduct and inefficiency.
As investigations continue, the public awaits further updates on the Service’s efforts to uphold integrity and rebuild trust.
