Fifteen personnel of the Nigeria Correctional Service (NCoS) have been dismissed from service over acts of misconduct and indiscipline.
The dismissal of the NCoS officials was disclosed by the Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Services Board (CDCFIB).
The board also announced the demotion of 59 other personnel of the NCoS over various acts of professional misconduct.
Umar Abubakar, the spokesperson of the NCoS said the dismissal and demotion of the officers followed the review of 124 disciplinary cases allegedly committed by officers of the service across the country.
According to Abubakar, sanctions against the personnel followed recommendations from the Board’s Disciplinary and General Purpose Committee (BDGPC).
These sanctions meted out to the officers came after thorough investigations and adherence to due process.
“Following a thorough review, the Board approved various disciplinary measures in line with its commitment to enforcing discipline and upholding the integrity of the Service.
“A total of 15 personnel were dismissed from the Service for serious misconduct and violation of Service regulations.
“Additionally, 59 officers had their ranks reduced as a result of confirmed breaches of professional standards, while 42 personnel were issued written warning letters as a corrective measure,” Abubakar said.
He, however, noted that 16 personnel of the NCoS were exonerated after they were found not guilty of the allegations levelled against them.
In addition, seven others have been slammed with suspension pending the outcome of the investigation of their cases.
“In one case, an officer was suspended from duty and recommended for handover to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for prosecution due to the gravity of the offence.
“Furthermore, eight personnel were compulsorily retired from the Service, and 1 officer had his rank reversed with a directive to refund all earnings received while wrongly holding the rank,” Abubakar added.
He further warned that the board under the leadership of Olubunmi Tunde-Ojo, the Minister of Interior would continue to maintain high ethical and professional standards across all cadres.
He also stated that the Controller General of the service, Sylvester Nwacuhe has assured that sanctions against erring personnel will continue to be handled with fairness in strict compliance with extant rules and procedures.