In a startling development, the Nigerian Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has ordered an immediate and comprehensive investigation into the alleged unethical conduct of several high-ranking police officers, including the Head of INTERPOL’s National Central Bureau (NCB), AIG Idowu Owohunwa. The probe, which targets AIG Abdul Yari, AIG Ben Igwe, and five other senior officers, centers on accusations of backdating their official service records to extend their tenure unlawfully.
The directive, contained in a memo signed by the Assistant Inspector-General of Police and Force Secretary, AIG Olofu Rhoda, and dated January 13, 2025, was addressed to the head of the IGP Monitoring Unit. The memo, obtained exclusively by Sahara Reporters, follows a petition by the Integrity Youth Alliance, a civic group based in Abuja.
The memo stated:
> “The Inspector-General of Police directs you to investigate and furnish findings not later than Monday, January 20, 2025.”
The allegations revolve around the controversial “Force Entrant” scheme, a program within the Nigeria Police Force that allows eligible officers to advance to a higher cadre based on their educational qualifications. However, it has been revealed that some officers allegedly manipulated this system by backdating their service records, thereby extending their service period unlawfully.
The affected officers include:
1. AIG Abdul Yari
2. AIG Idowu Owohunwa (INTERPOL NCB Head)
3. AIG Ben Igwe
4. CP Peter Ukachi Opara
5. CP Obo Obo Ukani
6. DCP Simon Asamber Lough (SAN)
7. ACP Akpan Brown
The memo emphasized the legal implications of such actions, citing the Public Service Rules, which stipulate that officers cannot remain in service beyond the legally permitted duration. It also clarified that the “Force Entrant” scheme does not reset an officer’s service duration but merely facilitates an upgrade within the system.
This unfolding scandal has sent shockwaves through the ranks of the Nigeria Police Force, raising critical questions about integrity, accountability, and leadership within the institution. The allegations, if proven true, could tarnish the reputation of the affected officers, including INTERPOL’s Nigerian boss, AIG Owohunwa, whose international position demands the highest standard of ethical conduct.
Civic groups and anti-corruption advocates have hailed the IGP’s swift response, describing it as a bold step toward restoring public trust in the police force. “This investigation will serve as a litmus test for the IGP’s commitment to transparency and justice within the force,” said a spokesperson for the Integrity Youth Alliance.
As the January 20 deadline for findings approaches, all eyes are on the Nigeria Police Force. The outcome of this probe could mark a turning point in the fight against corruption and unethical practices within the nation’s law enforcement. This high-profile case serves as a reminder of the critical importance of accountability, even among the highest echelons of leadership.
PIONEER NEWS 