• Salary halted pending investigation by Force Disciplinary Committee
' Seun Ibukun-Oni, Abuja
DAILY COURIER - The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has suspended Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) Abduyari Shuaya'u Lafia with immediate effect following allegations of misconduct and manipulation of official records. The suspension, effective from January 9, 2025, was announced in a communication signed by the Force Secretary, addressing all police departments, units, and commands.
According to the wireless message, the Police Service Commission (PSC) approved the suspension and interdiction based on the provisions of Public Service Rules (PSR) 100406, 2021 (as amended). The directive also instructed the cessation of Yari's salary pending the determination of his case by the Force Disciplinary Committee (FDC).
Suspension Details
The memo, dated January 10, 2025, with reference number AP:41804/FS/FHQ/ABJ/VOL.IV/3, emphasized that Yari must adhere to the conduct rules governing suspended officers. Additionally, the Budget and Payment Department has been ordered to take immediate steps to halt his salary.
Yari, who assumed office as the AIG in charge of the Force Intelligence Bureau in February 2023, is under investigation for alleged breaches of professional ethics and public service regulations.
Allegations of Record Manipulation and Misconduct
Investigations have revealed that Yari allegedly manipulated his retirement records to extend his service tenure and position himself for a promotion to Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG). Documents obtained indicate discrepancies in his entry and retirement dates, with conflicting records showing variations between 2024 and 2025.
Further scrutiny uncovered that Yari had previously faced disciplinary actions for absenteeism during his tenure as Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) in 2017. He reportedly absented himself from duty for over three months without leave and failed to respond to official queries. These actions contravened the Public Service Rules of Nigeria, including insubordination, sabotage, and conduct unbecoming of a public officer.
Calls for Accountability
The Integrity Youth Alliance, a non-governmental organization, has petitioned the Inspector General of Police (IGP) to enforce the Public Service Rules and ensure transparency in handling the case. The group’s spokesperson, Danjuma Lamido, highlighted that Yari's actions undermine the integrity of the police force and called for strict adherence to the mandatory retirement age and service duration limits.
“Deliberate acts of deception not only tarnish the image of the Nigeria Police Force but also question the credibility of its personnel records,” Lamido said.
Concerns Over Succession
Sources within the police headquarters revealed that Yari has been lobbying for a “soft landing” while positioning himself as the next DIG from the North Central region. However, stakeholders have urged IGP Kayode Egbetokun to maintain professionalism and ensure an unbiased review of the allegations.
Implications for Police Reforms
The suspension and ongoing investigation underscore the need for robust reforms within the Nigeria Police Force to ensure accountability, transparency, and strict adherence to public service rules.
As the Force Disciplinary Committee reviews Yari’s case, all eyes remain on the IGP to uphold integrity and restore public confidence in the police force.
