15 Nigeria Correctional Service (NCoS) employees were fired by the Federal Government, and 59 others were demoted for a variety of misbehaviors and lack of discipline.
After a thorough investigation by the Ministry of Interior’s Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Services Board (CDCFIB), Umar Abubakar, the NCoS’s Public Relations Officer, reportedly made this announcement in a statement.
After the Board’s Disciplinary and General Purpose Committee (BDGPC) completed investigations into 224 cases involving correctional staff around the country, disciplinary measures were implemented, the statement said.
“After conducting a comprehensive analysis, the Board authorized a number of disciplinary actions in keeping with its dedication to implementing discipline and maintaining the integrity of the Service,” Abubakar said.
“Depending on the severity of each case, the sanctions ranged from written warnings to outright dismissals,” Abubakar stated.
Read Also: Shettima: MSME Investments Key to Job Creation, Poverty Reduction, GDP Growth
Due to severe misconduct and violations of Service rules, 15 employees were let go from the Service. Furthermore, 59 police had their ranks lowered due to verified violations of professional norms, and 42 employees received written warning letters as a remedial action,” he stated.
He went on to say that 16 officers were cleared of all charges after being found not guilty. As their cases are still being investigated, seven more people are still on suspension.
In one especially serious example, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has suggested that an official be prosecuted.
“In one instance, because of the seriousness of the offense, an officer was suspended from duty and suggested to be turned over to the EFCC for prosecution,” Abubakar continued.
In addition, eight officers were forced to resign, and one officer had his rank reversed. He was also told to return whatever money he had earned while in the wrong post.
The CDCFIB’s head, Minister of the Interior Dr. Olubunmi Tunde Ojo, reiterated the federal government’s commitment to establishing a professional and disciplined culture within the prison system.
In response to the disciplinary measures, Sylvester Nwacuhe, the Controller General of Corrections, gave Nigerians the assurance that all penalties will be applied equitably and rigorously in compliance with current laws.
As the Service undertakes internal reforms to improve accountability and public trust, he also made a plea for public cooperation.
Disciplinary measures would be conducted fairly and strictly in accordance with current policies and procedures, the statement continued.
