Nigerian Police Force Initiates Probe into Senior Officers Over Alleged Age Falsification

 Nigerian Police Force Initiates Probe into Senior Officers Over Alleged Age Falsification

In a significant move towards accountability, the Nigerian Police Force has launched an investigation into several high-ranking officers, including the Head of the Legal Section, Simon Asamber Lough (SAN), and the Head of INTERPOL National Central Bureau (NCB), AIG Idowu Owohunwa. These officers are accused of manipulating their service records to extend their tenure beyond the mandatory retirement age.

Allegations of Service Record Manipulation

The investigation, ordered by Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun, centers on allegations that these senior officers backdated their service records, a practice that contravenes the Public Service Rules.The officers under scrutiny include AIG Abdul Yari, AIG Ben Igwe, CP Peter Ukachi Opara, CP Obo Obo Ukani, and ACP Akpan Brown.

A memo dated January 13, 2025, and signed by Assistant Inspector-General of Police, Force Secretary, AIG Olofu Rhoda, directed the IGP Monitoring Unit to conduct a thorough investigation and submit findings by January 20, 2025. This directive followed a letter from the Integrity Youth Alliance, a civic group based in Abuja, dated January 6, 2025, which raised concerns about the unethical practice of backdating service records.

The 'Force Entrant' Scheme and Its Implications

The officers allegedly exploited the 'Force Entrant' scheme, a program designed to upgrade deserving officers with requisite educational qualifications to a higher cadre after a brief training period at the Police Academy or any approved Police College.This scheme does not constitute a fresh appointment, meaning the service duration of such officers continues counting and does not automatically restart.Therefore, according to the Public Service Rules (7 Rule 020810 of Chapter two), these officers, having served in the public service and received salaries as required by law, cannot remain in service beyond the legally permitted period.

Specific Cases Under Investigation

One prominent case is that of DCP Simon Asamber Lough (SAN), who was enlisted into the Nigeria Police Force on January 8, 1987, and should have retired from service on January 8, 2022, after 35 years of active service.However, discrepancies in his service records suggest manipulation to extend his tenure.

Similarly, AIG Abdul Yari has been accused of altering his retirement records to extend his tenure in office. Discrepancies in his official documents have raised doubts about the integrity of his service record.

These allegations have significant implications for the integrity and credibility of the Nigerian Police Force. The manipulation of service records undermines public trust and highlights systemic issues within the force's administrative processes.The ongoing investigation aims to address these concerns and reinforce accountability within the force.

The Inspector-General of Police has emphasized the need for a thorough and unbiased investigation.Depending on the findings, the implicated officers could face disciplinary actions, including suspension or compulsory retirement, to uphold the integrity of the force and deter future misconduct.

The Nigerian Police Force's proactive approach in investigating these allegations reflects a commitment to transparency and accountability.As the investigation unfolds, it is imperative for the force to implement measures that prevent such unethical practices in the future, thereby restoring public confidence in its operations.