PSC dismisses four senior police officers, demotes 10 over misconduct

The Police Service Commission has dismissed four senior police officers, demoted 10 others, and sanctioned 31 officers over various acts of misconduct in a move aimed at strengthening discipline, accountability, and professionalism within the Nigeria Police Force.

The disciplinary actions were approved during the Commission’s Plenary Meeting held at its Corporate Headquarters in Abuja.

The decisions were announced in a statement issued on Tuesday by Torty Njoku Kalu, PSC’s Head of Protocol and Public Relations.

According to the Commission, the four dismissed officers were found guilty of gross misconduct, unprofessional conduct, and acts considered unbecoming of public officers.

The Commission also approved the demotion of 10 senior officers across different ranks.

The affected officers include three Superintendents of Police who were reduced to the rank of Deputy Superintendent of Police, two Deputy Superintendents of Police demoted to Assistant Superintendent of Police, and five Assistant Superintendents of Police reduced to the rank of Inspector.

“The Police Service Commission has approved the dismissal of four Senior Police Officers and issued a range of disciplinary measures against 31 others following various acts of misconduct.

“The four dismissed officers were found culpable of gross misconduct, unprofessional conduct, and acts unbecoming of public officers.

“In addition to the dismissals, the Commission approved a range of disciplinary actions which affected multiple officers. Ten senior officers received reductions in rank,” the statement read.

The Commission also ordered the compulsory retirement of two officers, stating that the decision was taken “in the public interest.

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Other disciplinary measures approved by the Commission include severe reprimands for 10 officers, reprimands for five others, warning letters issued to three officers, and a letter of advice to one officer.

However, the Commission cleared seven officers who had faced disciplinary proceedings after determining that there was insufficient evidence to establish any wrongdoing against them.

Speaking on the outcome of the plenary session, Hashimu  Argungu, PSC Chairman, reaffirmed the Commission’s resolve to ensure that misconduct within the police force attracts appropriate sanctions.

“The current Board of the PSC under my watch will not condone any form of misconduct by police officers.

“The Commission will continue to uphold discipline in the Force and match all forms of misconduct with commensurate disciplinary actions,” Argungu said.

He added that while the Commission would remain firm in punishing erring officers, it would equally reward personnel who demonstrate exceptional professionalism and dedication to duty.

“We would also continue to encourage and motivate hard work for deserving officers through our established reward system,” he stated.

The Commission said the latest disciplinary measures underscore its determination to entrench accountability, improve professionalism, and restore public confidence in the Nigeria Police Force through strict enforcement of ethical and disciplinary standards.