The aggrieved officers alleged that while the names of certain officers had been released for promotion examinations, including those who were recruited at the same time with them, the names of Course 3 and 4 officers had not been included in the process.
Some officers of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) have raised the alarm and accused the agency of lopsidedness in the promotion of workers, and irregularities in rank assignments and regularisation.
The aggrieved officers alleged that while the names of certain officers had been released for promotion examinations, including those who were recruited at the same time with them, the names of Course 3 and 4 officers had not been included in the process.
According to them, the omission of their names in the promotion examinations list has left them deeply troubled and raises serious questions about the fairness and transparency of the promotion process.
“We are concerned and dissatisfied regarding recent actions taken by the agency, specifically regarding the release of names for promotion examinations and the subsequent irregularities in rank assignments and regularization,” one of the officers who spoke with SaharaReporters on condition of anonymity said.
The officer continued, “It has come to our attention that while the names of certain officers mostly have been released for promotion examinations, including those who were recruited alongside us, the names of Course 3 and 4 officers have not yet been included in this process.
“This omission has left us deeply troubled and raises serious questions about the fairness and transparency of the promotion process.”
Another aggrieved officer further accused NDLEA of discriminatory practices in the recruitment and rank assignment processes.
The officer said that many officers, including Course 3 and 4 officers, who applied with degree qualifications were “unjustly” recruited as junior officers while others were short-changed with one rank each.
“We are deeply concerned about the discriminatory practices observed in the recruitment and rank assignment processes.
“Many officers, including Course 3 and 4 officers, who applied with degree qualifications, were unjustly recruited as junior officers, while others were short-changed with one rank each.
“Despite our qualifications and years of service, we have been denied the recognition and opportunities we rightfully deserve within the agency.
“Moreover, the subsequent regularization of ranks backdated to 2023 instead of the correct recruitment year of 2021, exacerbates the injustice we have endured,” another officer said.
One of the aggrieved officers said, “This arbitrary decision fails to acknowledge the contributions and sacrifices made by officers during this period and further undermines the integrity and credibility of the agency.
“Therefore, we respectfully demand immediate inclusion of Course 3 and 4 officers' names in the promotion examination list, accompanied by transparent explanations for any delays or discrepancies.
“A comprehensive review of the recruitment and rank assignment processes within the agency, with a commitment to rectify any instances of unfair treatment and discrimination.
“Retroactive adjustment of ranks and entitlements for officers who were unfairly assigned lower ranks, ensuring that they receive due recognition and compensation for their qualifications and experience.
“Transparent and accountable procedures for regularization, ensuring that all officers are treated fairly and that their service is accurately acknowledged and rewarded.
“We urge the NDLEA to take swift and decisive action to address the grievances outlined in this petition and restore our confidence in the fairness and integrity of the agency.
“As dedicated officers committed to upholding the mandate of the NDLEA, we deserve to be treated with dignity, fairness, and respect.”
Efforts made by SaharaReporters to get the comments of the NDLEA on the allegations failed as its Director of Media and Advocacy, Femi Babafemi, did not answer his calls. He had also not replied to a message sent to him as of the time of filing this report.