In a sweeping disciplinary action aimed at sanitising Nigeria’s correctional system, the Federal Government has dismissed 15 officers and demoted 59 others over acts of gross misconduct and violations of service regulations.
The Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Services Board (CDCFIB), which oversees disciplinary matters within the Nigeria Correctional Service (NCoS), approved the sanctions following a review of 224 cases of alleged misconduct.
Spokesperson for the Correctional Service, Umar Abubakar, confirmed the development in a statement on Thursday, saying the decisions were reached after thorough investigations and in line with due process.
He disclosed that the Board’s Disciplinary and General Purpose Committee had recommended various levels of sanctions based on the severity of offences committed by the personnel involved.
“Fifteen personnel were dismissed from service for serious misconduct, while 59 others were reduced in rank for confirmed breaches of professional standards,” the statement read in part.
In addition, 42 officers were issued warning letters as a corrective measure, while 16 were exonerated after being cleared of allegations.
Seven officers remain on suspension pending the outcome of ongoing investigations. Notably, one officer was recommended for prosecution by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) due to the gravity of the offence.
The Board also directed the compulsory retirement of eight officers and reversed the promotion of another, with an order to refund all salaries and benefits received under the wrong rank.
Chairman of the Board and Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunde Ojo, said the disciplinary measures reflect the government’s zero tolerance for corruption and indiscipline in the correctional system.
He reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to upholding professionalism, accountability and integrity in public service.
Commenting on the development, Controller General of Corrections, Haliru Nababa, said the service would continue to enforce discipline without bias and called on Nigerians to support ongoing efforts to reform the correctional system.
“This is part of our broader strategy to rebuild trust and restore credibility to the service,” Nababa said.
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