The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has dismissed 15 officers, suspended seven, and placed nine on compulsory retirement over offences ranging from forgery, extortion and economic sabotage, among others.
NSCDC commandant general, Ahmed Audi, announced the disciplinary action in a statement on Monday.
Mr Audi also said one was interdicted and another demoted, disclosing that the decision was approved by the Civil Defence, Corrections, Fire and Immigration Board.
Mr Audi explained that the officers were also sanctioned for job racketeering, conspiracy, absence without leave, and dishonesty.
Those dismissed included an assistant superintendent of Corps I, two chief corps assistants, three assistant inspector of corps (AIC), three corps assistant (CAIII), two CAII, one CAII, one inspector of corps and one AIC.
“The suspended officers include two Deputy Commandants of Corps, three Assistant Commandants of Corps, one Assistant Superintendent of Corps II and one CAII,” said the statement.”The board also approved the interdiction of an Inspector of Corps (IC) and demotion of one IC.”
The commandant general further stated that the disciplinary actions were part of measures to rid the service of bad eggs and ensure discipline.
“The actions of the erring personnel made it imperative to invoke internal disciplinary mechanisms by setting up disciplinary committees,” stated the NSCDC.
It added, They carried out investigation and orderly room trial for various offences and spelt out the recommendation of different sanctions to the board for approval.”
The NSCDC boss reiterated his determination not to allow errant officers to portray the corps in a bad light under his leadership.
He said the sanctions would serve as a deterrent to others, as the corps will not condone any unethical conduct.
Mr Audi called on the personnel to uphold the corps’ standard operating procedure, code of ethics, discipline, and public service rules.
He promised to reward operatives who excel in their various assignments as a motivation for good conduct and dedication to service.