By Isiaka Mustapha, Editor-in-Chief, People’s Security Monitor

The Police Service Commission (PSC) has approved the dismissal of three senior police officers and the demotion of 16 others over various disciplinary offences, including serious misconduct and behaviour considered unbecoming of officers of the law.

The Commission also approved severe reprimands for 21 officers and ordinary reprimands for two others, while three officers were exonerated of wrongdoing. Some previously suspended officers were equally reinstated into the Nigeria Police Force.

The disciplinary decisions were taken at the Commission’s plenary meeting chaired by its Chairman, Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG) Hashimu Salihu Argungu (retd.), at the Solomon Arase Conference Hall, PSC Corporate Headquarters, Abuja.The latest decisions underscore the Commission’s resolve to strengthen discipline, accountability and professionalism within the Nigeria Police Force.

Reaffirming the PSC’s zero tolerance for corruption, human rights violations, interference in land disputes and civil matters, as well as other forms of police misconduct, Argungu assured Nigerians that the Commission would continue to ensure the speedy resolution of disciplinary cases brought before it.

He stressed the importance of maintaining professional standards and ensuring that officers found culpable of misconduct face appropriate sanctions.The PSC Chairman commended the Chairman of the Commission’s Standing Committee on Discipline and Legal Matters, Hon. Justice Paul Adamu Galumje (retd.), for his contributions to the consideration and determination of the disciplinary cases.He also acknowledged the commitment of other Board members, including DIG (Dr) Taiwo Lakanu (retd.); Hon. Justice Christine Dabup (retd.); Alhaji Abdulfatah Mohammed; the Secretary to the Commission, Chief Onyemuche Nnamani; and the Director of the Police Discipline Department, Mr Ferdinand U. Ekpe.

Argungu praised their dedication throughout the departmental, committee and plenary reviews of disciplinary cases and appeals, noting the importance of thoroughness and fairness in the Commission’s decision-making process.The Police Service Commission reiterated its commitment to ensuring that discipline, integrity and accountability remain central to policing in Nigeria.