Probe Of Inspector General Of Police Idris Over Alleged N2.4billion Corruption Charge Must Continue, House Of Representatives Vows

The House of Representatives adhoc committee probing allegations of corruption and harassment against the Inspector General of Police, Ibrahim Idris, has vowed to not relent in its duty.

The Police boss, who was absent for the third time after being summoned by the House adhoc committee, had written a 9-page letter in an attempt to boycott the committee.

Recall that a Deputy Commissioner of Police, Abdulyari Lafia, brought a petition before the House and an adhoc committee, headed by Diri Douye, was mandated to investigate the matter.

Abdulyari accused the IGP of “criminal misappropriation, embezzlement and stealing N2.4 billion.”

He also indicted a Director of Public Prosecution in the Office of the Federal Attorney General and Minister of Justice, saying he “collected unspecified amount of money and doctored a legal advice favourable to the suspects to enable the Police kill the case.”

However, a letter from the IGP to the committee, signed by Commissioner of Police, David Igbodo reads in part: “It is the conviction of the IGP that the matter before the committee is the same with the three suits filed in court by DCP Abdulyari and will not make any further comment on the issue as that will be sub judice.

“The Inspector-General of Police is prepared to meet DCP Abdulyari in court and not at the committee room of the National Assembly where the Chairman of the Committee has consistently made derogatory remarks against the IGP.”

The adhoc committee led by Mr. Diri Douye frowned at this letter, stating that the case in question can only be sub judice if the Speaker feels so.

The lawmakers described the letter as a “lecture” and said the IGP has arrogated the power of the Judiciary to himself and is teaching members how to do their job.”

Consequently, the adhoc committee asked to see the court order and all other documents related to the issue.

Douye said the allegations against the IGP are grave and therefore cannot be swept under the carpet.

The House, he said, will not be deterred in the investigation because it has the constitutional powers to do so.

“The Committee has resolved to continue with the investigative hearing. All parties should appear in the interest of fair hearing,” he said.