A coalition of civil society organisations has urged the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) to dismiss a petition seeking an investigation into the management of security funds under former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello and incumbent Governor Usman Ododo. The group argued that the allegations were politically motivated and could compromise sensitive security operations in the state.
Coalition's Position
The coalition, which includes the Centre for Public Integrity, Nigeria's Integrity Watch, the Northern Council of Nigeria, the Nigeria Ethnic Nationality Forum, and the Foundation for Democracy in Africa, stated that public discussion of certain details in the petition could undermine ongoing security efforts. It called on the anti-corruption agency to ensure all claims are backed by evidence and handled through due process.
Background of the Petition
The development follows a petition submitted on June 9 by the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre and the Advocacy and Legal Advice Centre, which asked the ICPC to investigate the handling of funds linked to the Kogi State Government's Security Operation Account. The coalition's counter-petition, addressed to the ICPC chairman, raised concerns about the potential security implications of the original petition.
Security Concerns
According to the coalition, counter-terrorism and intelligence activities often require a high degree of confidentiality. It said that public disclosure of operational details could draw attention to individuals and structures connected to security operations, thereby undermining security in the state.
Political Allegations
The coalition also alleged that the controversy may be linked to political disagreements within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kogi State. It claimed that some political actors dissatisfied with the outcome of past party primaries may be behind efforts to sustain scrutiny of the former and current administrations. However, the group did not provide evidence to support this allegation, and the organisations that filed the original petition have yet to respond publicly.
Defence of Security Spending
The coalition cited statements from the Kogi State House of Assembly and state officials who have maintained that government financial activities, including security-related expenditures, are subject to legislative oversight. It also referenced comments by Kogi State Commissioner for Information Kingsley Fanwo, who has stated that maintaining security in a strategic transit state requires significant investment in intelligence gathering, logistics, surveillance, and collaboration with federal security agencies. The coalition argued that security-related spending should be assessed within the context of the state's security challenges and operational requirements.
Call for Due Process
The coalition urged the ICPC to ensure any review of the allegations is guided by due process and evidence. It called on the commission to require all parties involved to substantiate their claims, arguing that public institutions should not be used to advance political disputes. Copies of the coalition's petition were reportedly sent to the Office of the National Security Adviser, the Department of State Services, the Nigerian Army, the Nigeria Police Force, and the National Assembly.
