PSC Clashes With Police Over Land Matters

The chairman of the Police Service Commission (PSC) has initiated an investigation into allegations of corrupt practices and land matters involving some senior officers of the Zone 7 Police Command, Abuja.

This development follows a complaint by Alhaji Abubakar Yahaya, whose residential property was demolished by a developer assisted by police officers.

According to the PSC chairman, DIG Hashimu Argungu, the investigation will focus on the roles of the officer in charge of the Legal Unit and the deputy commissioner in charge of operations.

The officers are accused of abuse of office, extortion, and gross misconduct.

The commission’s spokesperson, Ikechukwu Ani, said, “The demolition of Yahaya’s property occurred on December 19, 2024, when police officers and enforcement staff from the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, arrived at the residence. The officers allegedly threw away his property and chased his family members out.

“In addition, the enforcement unit of the High Court, led by Shamsudeen Ubandoma, collected N700,000 from Yahaya under false pretences. The money was purportedly for the policemen who accompanied Ubandoma for enforcement.”

He further explained that “on January 16, 2025, policemen accompanied by Alhaji Usman Sarki, the purported owner of the disputed plot, demolished Yahaya’s residence using trucks and bulldozers. Yahaya was arrested and charged with criminal conspiracy, trespass, and mischief.

“The petitioner claimed that he had been in possession of the plot for over 15 years without any issues. He alleged that the demolition was carried out solely on the strength of the police, led by the officer in charge of the Legal Unit.”

The PSC chairman has requested that the inspector-general of police set up a competent committee to investigate the allegations. The petitioner is seeking an investigation, sanctions against the officers involved, and compensation of N1 billion.

“The investigation is a significant step towards addressing allegations of corruption within the police force. The PSC’s commitment to transparency and accountability is evident in its efforts to investigate and sanction erring officers. The outcome of the investigation will be closely watched, as it has implications for the reputation of the police force and the administration of justice in the country,” Ani stated.