This move follows a formal complaint by Alhaji Abubakar Yahaya, whose home was allegedly demolished by a property developer with the assistance of police officers. The probe will focus on the officer heading the Legal Unit and the Deputy Commissioner in charge of operations, both accused of misconduct, extortion, and abuse of power.
DIG Argungu has called on the Inspector-General of Police to form a competent committee to thoroughly examine the claims. Yahaya is demanding disciplinary action against the involved officers and ₦1 billion in compensation.
According to PSC spokesperson Ikechukwu Ani, the demolition took place on December 19, 2024, when police officers, alongside High Court enforcement staff, allegedly forcefully evicted Yahaya’s family and disposed of their belongings. The enforcement team, led by Shamsudeen Ubandoma, reportedly extorted ₦700,000 from Yahaya under the pretense that it was for the accompanying policemen.
Further incidents occurred on January 16, 2025, when police officers accompanied by Alhaji Usman Sarki, who claims ownership of the disputed land, demolished Yahaya’s home using heavy machinery. Yahaya was subsequently arrested and charged with criminal conspiracy, trespass, and mischief.
Yahaya asserts that he has occupied the land for over 15 years without dispute and claims the demolition was executed solely through the influence of police officials, particularly the Legal Unit head.
The PSC emphasized that this investigation underscores its commitment to transparency and accountability within the police force. The outcome is expected to have significant implications for both the integrity of the police and the broader justice system in Nigeria.