PSC reinstates dismissed police officers, throws out petition against DIG

The Police Service Commission (PSC) has approved the reinstatement of several police officers who were previously punished, following a review of various disciplinary appeals.

According to the commission, a total of 24 appeals and one pending disciplinary matter were examined during its plenary session.

PSC spokesperson Ikechukwu Ani said in a statement on Sunday that the decisions were guided by the commission’s commitment to fairness and justice in handling disciplinary issues within the Nigeria Police Force.

One of the reinstated officers was ACP Ejiofor Grace Obiageli, who had been compulsorily retired after an incident on September 8, 2023, at Old Netim Division in Akamkpa, Cross River State.

“The Commission approved her reinstatement from the date of her compulsory retirement and to be properly placed so as to be at par with her mates,” Ani stated.
He added that the commission also lifted the punishment of severe reprimand earlier imposed on ACP Muhammad Yunusa, restored the rank of CSP Ihekandu Allwell Okwuonu, and reinstated him, subject to his retirement date.

“SP Clement Awoyemi got the Commission’s approval for adjustment of his date of reinstatement while ASP Bamiselu Oluwaseun, ASP Ahmed Monday and ASP Imoohi Doora were all reinstated,” Ani said.

The PSC also dismissed petitions against DIG Bzigu Dali, describing the allegations of falsified records as “frivolous.”

“The Commission also noted that, as the exclusive body on Police Discipline, the warning letter issued to the officer, and which did not emanate from the Commission, was null and void. It also quashed the reversal of his date of birth from 10th of April 1967 to 10th of April 1966 through a signal,” he added.

PSC Chairman, DIG Hashimu Argungu (retd.), assured that the commission would continue to act promptly on disciplinary matters to ensure justice and fairness.

“The Commission will henceforth ensure that pending disciplinary matters are treated with despatch so that those found culpable are made to face the consequences while those exonerated are freed to continue with their career progression. The Commission will not at any time impede the career progression of any Officer who is not found guilty of any misdemeanour,” Argungu said.

During its second plenary meeting on Thursday, the commission also approved the promotion of several deserving officers, including the appointment of a new Deputy Inspector-General of Police and the elevation of one Commissioner of Police to the rank of Assistant Inspector-General.

Those promoted include SP Omenihu Obinna, Commander, Anti-Cult Unit, Abia State Command; DSP Bankole Olajide Joseph, Commander, Bank Guard, Lagos State Command; and several others confirmed as Assistant Superintendents of Police, such as Ede Stella Ukamaka of the Police Hospital, Awka, Anambra State; Omeife Bethrand Emeka of 45 PMF, Force Headquarters, Abuja; and Nnamdi Nwoba, O/C Surveillance, Ubakala Division, Abia State Command.

ASP Adeyemi Adeola, Chief of Staff to the Chairman of a Lagos State Task Force, was also promoted to the rank of DSP.