The Police Service Commission (PSC) has taken a major disciplinary step by dismissing four senior police officers over misconduct, while 31 others received various sanctions in what appears to be one of the commission’s strongest moves to reinforce discipline within the Nigeria Police Force.
This was announced after the commission’s plenary meeting at its headquarters in Abuja, and has drawn attention because of the number of senior officers affected.
According to the PSC, the affected officers were found guilty of gross misconduct, unprofessional behaviour, and actions considered unbecoming of public officers. Consequently, the commission approved a series of disciplinary measures designed to strengthen accountability across the police force.
In addition to the dismissals, ten senior officers were reduced in rank. Three Superintendents of Police were demoted to Deputy Superintendents of Police. Furthermore, two Deputy Superintendents of Police were reduced to Assistant Superintendents of Police, while five Assistant Superintendents of Police were demoted to the rank of Inspector.
Meanwhile, two officers were compulsorily retired in what the commission described as being in the public interest.
The commission also approved severe reprimands for ten officers. In addition, five officers received formal reprimands, while three others were issued warning letters. One officer was given a letter of advice.
However, not every officer investigated was found culpable. The commission disclosed that seven officers were cleared after investigations found no evidence of wrongdoing against them.
Speaking on the outcome of the meeting, Chairman of the Police Service Commission, DIG Hashimu Salihu Argungu (rtd), reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to enforcing discipline across the Nigeria Police Force.
“The current Board of the PSC under my watch will not condone any form of misconduct by police officers,” DIG Argungu stated.
He further stressed that disciplinary measures would continue to match the gravity of offences committed.
“The Commission will continue to uphold discipline in the Force and match all forms of misconduct with commensurate disciplinary actions. We would also continue to encourage and motivate hard work for deserving officers through our established reward system.”
Furthermore, the commission noted that rewarding outstanding performance remains an important part of its efforts to improve professionalism within the force.
The PSC also reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening transparency, professionalism, and integrity within the Nigeria Police Force. Therefore, disciplinary cases involving officers will continue to be handled in accordance with established procedures.
