Following the dismissal of some police cadets from the Police Academy, Wudil, Kano over disciplinary issues and subsequent outcry and public plea, a committee headed by the Minister of Police Affairs with the Inspector General of Police and other relevant stakeholders have been set up to review the cases.
Inaugurating the 11-member committee in Abuja on Thursday, the Minister of Police Affairs, Ibrahim Gaidam said they “expected to review the cases and make recommendations within four weeks and report back accordingly.”
Recall that the disciplinary committee of the Police Academy, Wudil, Kano after various investigations and consideration, unanimously recommended the suspension and discharge of some cadets who were found guilty of committing various infractions in the school which include smoking of Indian hemps, drinking of alcohol, damage of property, among others.
Speaking on the issue and the reason for the review, the minister said, “It is imperative that a thorough investigations and review of these decisions be conducted following passionate appeals received from some students, and parents/guardians of the affected students.
“The recent incidents that have brought us to this moment are a cause for concern, but they also present an opportunity for reflection and improvement. We must approach this investigation with diligence, fairness, and an unwavering commitment to the truth. Our objective is not only to address the specific cases at hand, but also to reinforce the standards of conduct that define our academy and the values we hold dear.”
He urged members of the committee to “remember that our findings will not only impact the individuals involved, but will also shape the future of this institution and the broader police ecosystem.
“We owe it to our cadets, to the communities they will serve, and to the legacy of the Nigeria Police Academy to ensure that our processes are transparent, just, and aimed at fostering an environment of accountability.”
In its pursuit of excellence, he charged the reviewers to be mindful of the broader implications of the work, adding that, “The integrity of our academy reflects on the entire policing system in Nigeria. It is our duty to ensure that every cadet who walks through these halls emerges not only as a law enforcement officer but as a paragon of virtue and professionalism.”
He urged each member of the committee to remain steadfast in their commitment to justice and integrity, calling for engagement in open dialogue by listening to all perspectives and work collaboratively to restore faith in the processes.
The committee members include the Minister of Police Affairs, who is the chairman of the committee and will be represented by the permanent secretary in the ministry.
Others are representative of the Police Service Commission, the Inspector General of Police, DIG of the zone, director, reform coordination and service improvement; director, police service department, legal department; representative of Federal Civil Service Commission, representative of Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Registrar of the Academy and director, Human Resources Management, who will serve as secretary.