In a significant shakeup within the Nigerian Police Force, Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) Abduyari Shuaya’u Lafia has been suspended from duty, effective January 9, 2025. The development, announced via a wireless message from the Force Headquarters and shared by Sahara Reporters on its official X handle, has sent ripples across the law enforcement community.
The suspension, approved by the Police Service Commission (POLSCOM), was outlined in a letter dated January 9, 2025, and communicated in strict adherence to PSR 100406, 2021, as amended. The letter titled “Suspension and Interdiction AP. NO. 41804 AIG Abduyari Shuaya’u Lafia” mandates the suspension of the senior officer pending the determination of his case by the Force Disciplinary Committee (FDC).
The wireless communication, signed by the Force Secretary, emphasized that the suspended officer must strictly comply with the regulations governing the conduct of police officers under suspension. It further instructed the AIG Budget and Payment to immediately halt Lafia’s salary, underscoring the gravity of the action.
The message, referenced as AP:41804/FS/FHQ/ABJ/VOL.IV/3 and dated January 10, 2025, read in part:
“Suspension and interdiction X AP.NO. 41804 AIG Abduyari Shuaya’u Lafia X the Police Service Commission (POLSCOM) in its letter No. PSC/CHR/IGP/VOL.5/018 dated 9th January 2025 X in accordance with PSR 100406, 2021 as amended x has approved the suspension of the above-named officer from duty with effect from 9/01/2025 X warn the officer to adhere strictly to the rules and regulations governing the conduct of police officers on suspension accordingly X pending the determination of his case by the Force Disciplinary Committee (FDC) X AIGPOL BUDGET/PAYMECH all states only x ensure appropriate step is taken to stop his salary X treat as very important x please.”
Prior to his suspension, AIG Abduyari Shuaya’u Lafia served as the head of the Force Intelligence Bureau, a critical arm of the Nigerian Police Force responsible for intelligence gathering and security analysis. He assumed the role in February 2023 and was regarded as a key figure in shaping the bureau’s operational strategies.
This high-profile suspension highlights the Police Force’s renewed commitment to internal discipline and accountability. While the specific allegations against AIG Lafia remain undisclosed, his case will be reviewed by the Force Disciplinary Committee, which is expected to decide his fate in the coming weeks.
The move also underscores the growing resolve of the Police Service Commission to ensure that officers, regardless of rank, adhere to the ethical standards of the profession. By halting his salary during the suspension, the Force sends a clear message about the importance of maintaining integrity within its ranks.
AIG Abduyari Shuaya’u Lafia’s suspension adds to the list of recent high-profile disciplinary actions aimed at restoring public confidence in the Nigerian Police Force. The nation will be watching closely as the Force Disciplinary Committee deliberates on the case in the coming days.
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