The Nigeria Police Force (NPF), Ondo State Command, has demoted Inspector Moshebun Segun, AP No. 354466, to the rank of sergeant following his prolonged absence from duty for 17 days. The demotion, which is seen as part of the force’s ongoing efforts to maintain discipline, was the result of a thorough review of the inspector’s conduct by the Commanding Officer of the Department of Force Enforcement (Compol DFE) in Akure.
Inspector Segun’s absence, which violated provisions of the Police Act and Regulation 2020 (as amended), has sparked a renewed focus on the importance of adherence to duty and the consequences of neglecting responsibilities within the police force.
According to a statement released by the Ondo State Police Command, Inspector Segun was found guilty of violating Paragraphs 1 and 3 of the Police Act and Regulation, which require officers to be present and perform their duties as prescribed. As part of the disciplinary actions, Segun was demoted from the rank of inspector to sergeant, a severe consequence of his repeated failure to report to work.
Additionally, Segun was ordered to forfeit 17 days’ pay, reflecting the number of days he was absent from duty. The decision was made after a thorough investigation and orderly room proceedings, which determined that Segun’s absence without prior approval or reasonable justification was a breach of police regulations.
The demotion was officially enforced by Supol Ikare of Zone 17 in Akure, who reiterated the importance of discipline within the police force. “I guarantee this will not happen again,” Supol Ikare remarked, addressing Segun following the ruling. The senior officer further warned Segun that if a similar incident occurred in the future, he would face dismissal from the force. “If it happens again, I will dismiss you,” Ikare added, underscoring the severity of the matter.
An official within the police force also emphasized that this disciplinary action would serve as a final warning, stating, “This is the last time. Let this serve as a lesson to everyone that we take discipline seriously within the force.”
The incident highlights the ongoing efforts within the Nigeria Police Force to curb absenteeism and other forms of misconduct that could undermine the integrity of the institution. The police are committed to ensuring that their officers remain accountable and upholding their responsibilities at all times.
The demotion of Inspector Segun follows a series of similar incidents within the police force, indicating that absenteeism and negligence are ongoing challenges that the Nigeria Police Force is working to address. In March 2024, Police Officer James Okechukwu, stationed at the Ikeja Police Command in Lagos State, faced disciplinary action for unauthorised absence. Okechukwu had been absent from his duties for 12 consecutive days without proper approval, leading to his suspension.
This incident, along with Segun’s demotion, reflects the police force’s commitment to ensuring that officers fulfill their responsibilities and maintain the highest standards of professionalism. According to a statement from the Lagos Police Command, the suspension of Okechukwu was part of an effort to maintain the discipline and integrity of the force, ensuring that officers are always available to serve the public effectively.
Inspector Segun’s case is not the first of its kind within the Nigeria Police Force. In 2022, a similar incident occurred when Inspector Richard Madu, stationed in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Command in Abuja, was demoted to the rank of sergeant after being absent from his post for over two weeks without providing any valid explanation. Like Segun, Madu was also ordered to forfeit his pay for the duration of his absence, serving as a reminder of the consequences of neglecting duty within the police force.
These incidents show a pattern of disciplinary actions aimed at reinforcing the importance of duty and responsibility within the police force. With growing concerns over the level of professionalism and commitment within the Nigeria Police, the force’s leadership has taken steps to address these challenges and restore public confidence in the institution.
The issue of absenteeism and neglect of duty has long been a challenge within the Nigeria Police Force. With the increasing demand for security in the country, ensuring that officers are present and fully committed to their roles is essential. The police are tasked with safeguarding citizens and maintaining law and order, and their ability to perform these duties effectively depends on their availability and dedication.
Disciplinary actions such as demotions and forfeiture of pay serve as a deterrent to other officers who may be tempted to neglect their responsibilities. They also send a strong message that the Nigeria Police Force will not tolerate misconduct and that officers who fail to meet the required standards will face consequences.
In the case of Segun, the decision to demote him was likely influenced by the need to maintain order and discipline within the force. The demotion of an officer to the rank of sergeant is a significant consequence, one that serves to remind others of the importance of being present and accountable in their roles.
The incidents involving Inspector Segun, Officer Okechukwu, and Inspector Madu serve as a wake-up call for the Nigeria Police Force to address the underlying issues that contribute to absenteeism and negligence. While disciplinary actions are necessary, they also highlight the need for better management, support, and training for police officers.
