In a sweeping move, the Police Service Commission (PSC) has dismissed 18 senior police officers and demoted 19 others due to their involvement in misconduct.
The decisions, which were made following careful review, reflect the commission’s ongoing efforts to ensure accountability and discipline within the Nigeria Police Force. The PSC’s Chairman, DIG Hashimu Argungu, issued a stern warning to officers, reminding them that they must adhere strictly to established rules and regulations.
The announcement, made on December 6, 2024, revealed that these actions were taken after the commission held its final plenary meeting in Abuja.
According to a statement by Ikechukwu Ani, the PSC’s Head of Press and Public Relations, the plenary session focused on reviewing over 100 pending disciplinary matters and 23 appeals. The commission also took into account 13 court judgments requiring compliance.
“Every officer must operate within the rules,” said DIG Argungu. “We will not tolerate misconduct in any form.”
The disciplinary actions came after a detailed assessment of the officers’ conduct. The dismissed officers include 10 Assistant Superintendents, four Deputy Superintendents, two Chief Superintendents, and one Superintendent.
In addition to these dismissals, 19 other officers were demoted. The demotions involved an Assistant Commissioner of Police, one Chief Superintendent, two Superintendents, two Deputy Superintendents, and 13 Assistant Superintendents.
The disciplinary measures are part of the PSC’s broader mission to restore integrity to the police force and strengthen the public’s trust in the institution.
“This is just the beginning,” DIG Argungu warned. “We will continue to ensure that the integrity of the force is upheld.”
The commission also imposed punishments on two Assistant Inspectors General of Police. One was reprimanded for failing to follow lawful instructions, while the other received a warning letter for negligence.
Several other officers received severe reprimands, and some were given letters of warning.
The dismissed officers are also expected to face prosecution by the Legal Unit of the Nigeria Police Force. The commission has indicated that some of the cases are still pending and requires further information from the Inspector General of Police.
“We will not spare any officer who indulges in personal disputes such as land, marital, or rent-related issues,” stated the PSC Chairman. “The police force must focus on criminal matters and ensure the protection of citizens.”
The Police Service Commission has stressed the need for proper legal proceedings to be followed, particularly with regard to civil matters, where the courts should take precedence.
DIG Argungu’s warning came amid growing concerns over the involvement of police officers in non-criminal issues, which have further tarnished the image of the force. In recent times, some officers have been linked to cases involving land disputes and even marital conflicts, which, according to the commission, is unacceptable.
The PSC Chairman emphasized that these actions will continue to ensure the discipline of police officers, while allowing those who remain innocent to progress in their careers. The commission’s firm stance against misconduct signals a more aggressive approach to cleaning up the force.
The outcome of the plenary meeting demonstrates the commission’s commitment to holding officers accountable for their actions.
“There must be consequences for officers who step outside the boundaries of their duty,” added Argungu. “This will serve as a deterrent to others who may be tempted to go astray.”
The PSC Chairman has assured Nigerians that the commission will work swiftly to resolve disciplinary matters, ensuring that police officers are either exonerated or appropriately punished for their wrongdoings. The commission’s decision to take a decisive stance is expected to restore public confidence in the Nigeria Police Force.
As the disciplinary matters unfold, the public will be closely watching the commission’s next steps. The future of many officers now hangs in the balance, and their ability to regain trust will be a key factor in their careers. With this latest round of dismissals and demotions, the Police Service Commission has sent a strong message: no one is above the law.
