PSC Dismisses 19 Senior Police Officers, Issues Punishments to Others for Misconduct

The Police Service Commission (PSC), after thorough evaluation of outstanding disciplinary matters, has approved the dismissal of 19 senior police officers.

This group includes two Chief Superintendents of Police, one Superintendent, four Deputy Superintendents, and 10 Assistant Superintendents.

Additionally, two Assistant Inspectors General of Police faced disciplinary actions. One was reprimanded for refusing to follow lawful instructions, while the other received a letter of warning for negligence.

Ikechukwu Ani, the PSC spokesperson, explained, “The commission also approved the reduction in ranks of nineteen (19) other senior police officers, including one Assistant Commissioner of Police, one Chief Superintendent, two Superintendents, two Deputy Superintendents, and thirteen Assistant Superintendents.”

The statement further outlined that several officers found guilty received various punishments, such as severe reprimands and warning letters. Most of the dismissed officers are expected to face prosecution by the Legal Unit of the Nigeria Police Force.

Three cases were deferred, pending further information from the Inspector General of Police. The commission also considered 23 appeals and petitions, as well as nine legal matters, including court judgments.

The PSC’s recent decisions impacted 110 pending disciplinary matters and 23 appeal cases, with 13 court rulings requiring compliance.

“The Commission had earlier considered and approved recommendations on several promotion matters, which have been conveyed to the Inspector General of Police for implementation,” the statement added.

In his remarks, Commission Chairman DIG Hashimu Argungu stressed the need for swift action on police disciplinary matters to allow officers without fault to progress in their careers, while ensuring those found guilty face appropriate penalties. He emphasized that the Commission would not tolerate police officers involved in civil disputes, such as land and marital issues, urging that courts handle such matters.

DIG Argungu also reiterated the importance of the police focusing on criminal activities and threats to life, leaving civil matters to the courts.

The Plenary Meeting, which took place in Abuja, was led by Chairman DIG Hashimu Argungu (rtd), with the attendance of DIG Taiwo Lakanu (rtd), Hon. Commissioner and Secretary to the Commission, and Chief Onyemuche Nnamani.