Nigerian Civil Society Groups Demand Anti-Corruption Probe into Police Cooperative Society
Civil society organisations and police welfare advocates have intensified calls for the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) to launch a thorough investigation into alleged corruption within the Nigeria Police Force Cooperative Society. The demands specifically target the period when retired Deputy Inspector-General of Police, Dasuki Galadanci, held key leadership roles in the society.
Allegations of Financial Mismanagement and Lack of Transparency
According to reports, the groups have urged the Police Service Commission to conduct a comprehensive forensic audit of the cooperative society. This follows serious allegations that Galadanci, during his tenure, exerted significant control over funds deducted monthly from the salaries of police officers nationwide. These deductions are intended for savings, loans, and welfare programmes, but concerns have been raised about their management.
Serving and retired police officers, speaking anonymously due to fears of reprisal, have highlighted issues such as non-transparent handling of cooperative funds. They report that some members faced challenges accessing loans and other benefits, with applications often delayed or declined without clear explanations. This has left many officers unable to utilise funds they had contributed, undermining the cooperative's purpose of supporting police welfare.
Questions Over Assets Linked to Retired DIG Galadanci
Beyond the cooperative's operations, civil society actors have raised questions about high-value properties allegedly linked to Galadanci. Claims suggest he owns luxury residences in Abuja, Kano, and Lagos, locations known for their high market values. Observers note that these assets may not align with the legitimate earnings of a senior police officer over decades of service, which typically include salaries, allowances, and retirement benefits estimated in the tens of millions of naira.
While these claims remain unverified, critics argue they warrant scrutiny to determine if the properties can be reconciled with public service earnings. This has fueled calls for authorities to examine Galadanci's financial records and asset declarations as part of a broader investigation.
Call for Transparent and Independent Investigation
Anti-corruption advocates emphasise that these allegations underscore the urgent need for a transparent and independent probe by relevant authorities. They are pressing the EFCC, ICPC, and the Police Service Commission to review the financial records and operational activities of the Nigeria Police Force Cooperative Society, particularly during Galadanci's leadership. The groups also advocate for a detailed assessment of the retired DIG's alleged assets to ascertain any potential wrongdoing.
The push for accountability comes amid ongoing efforts to address corruption within public institutions, with civil society organisations playing a pivotal role in advocating for justice and transparency in Nigeria's security sector.
