In a bold move to uphold discipline and professionalism within the Nigerian Police Force, the Police Service Commission (PSC) has dismissed two Assistant Superintendents of Police (ASPs) for gross misconduct. This action forms part of a broader disciplinary exercise that saw ten senior officers punished for various infractions, including dishonesty, sabotage, and unauthorized disclosure of official secrets.
The PSC’s spokesperson, Ikechukwu Ani, disclosed these developments in a statement issued Monday, revealing the decisions finalized during the commission’s second plenary meeting held in Abuja. The disciplinary measures underscore the PSC’s commitment to enforcing accountability within the ranks of the police force.
A Tough Stand on Misconduct
“The Police Service Commission has approved the dismissal and prosecution of two ASPs for misconduct, dishonesty, corruption, sabotage, and acts unbecoming of public officers,” Ani stated.
The commission also demoted six officers for related offenses. Among those affected are two Superintendents of Police, who were reduced to Deputy Superintendents; one Deputy Superintendent, now an Assistant Superintendent; and three Assistant Superintendents demoted to Inspectors.
Additionally, nine officers faced reprimands for various forms of misconduct, while a Deputy Commissioner of Police was cleared of allegations and exonerated. One Assistant Superintendent received a formal warning for unprofessional behavior.
Ensuring Accountability
PSC Chairman, retired Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Hashimu Argungu, reaffirmed the commission’s stance on discipline. “The Commission will ensure that Nigeria’s police officers are disciplined and effectively equipped to carry out their constitutional responsibility of enforcing the law and protecting lives and property,” he emphasized.
Argungu also assured that all pending disciplinary matters (PDMs) would be addressed promptly to avoid stagnation within the force.
Promotions Amid Discipline
While wielding the stick against misconduct, the PSC also offered the carrot of recognition and career advancement. A wave of promotions accompanied the disciplinary actions, with numerous officers elevated to higher ranks across the board.
According to the statement, 11 Commissioners of Police were promoted to the rank of Assistant Inspectors General, while 16 Deputy Commissioners advanced to Commissioners. Other notable promotions included 21 Assistant Commissioners elevated to Deputy Commissioners, 57 Chief Superintendents raised to Assistant Commissioners, and 1,348 Superintendents promoted to Chief Superintendents.
Among the promoted were notable officers such as Obi-Ejoh Nnamdi Patrick, former Commander of the Anti-Narcotics section in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Command, now serving in Kaduna, and Milicent Amadi, Officer in Charge of Surveillance at the Ebonyi State Command.
A Balancing Act
The PSC’s dual approach—disciplining errant officers while rewarding deserving ones—aims to foster a culture of integrity and competence within the force. By addressing misconduct and recognizing exemplary service, the commission seeks to rebuild public trust in the police, a crucial institution in ensuring national security.
A Call for Professionalism
The decisions, conveyed to the Inspector General of Police for implementation, reflect a broader commitment to reform within the Nigerian Police Force. The PSC has been under increasing pressure to address issues of corruption, abuse of power, and inefficiency within the ranks, as public confidence in law enforcement continues to waver.
For years, the Nigerian police have faced criticism over allegations of misconduct and abuse, leading to calls for comprehensive reforms. The commission’s latest actions serve as a reminder that accountability begins within the system, and errant officers will not be shielded from consequences.
Public Reaction
The announcement has sparked mixed reactions among Nigerians. While some praise the PSC for taking decisive action against corruption and unprofessional conduct, others remain skeptical about the long-term impact of such measures.
“I commend the PSC for this bold step, but they need to do more to ensure these disciplinary actions are not just cosmetic,” said Chike Umeh, a civil rights advocate in Abuja.
Others, like community leader Fatima Yusuf, expressed hope that the promotions would boost morale among diligent officers. “It’s important to reward those who serve with dedication and integrity. That’s how you inspire others to do better,” she noted.
A Step Toward Reform
As the Nigerian Police Force grapples with challenges ranging from internal inefficiencies to public distrust, the PSC’s latest decisions signal a commitment to reform. Whether this marks a turning point for the institution remains to be seen, but for now, the message is clear: discipline and professionalism are non-negotiable in the quest for a more effective and accountable police force.
