The Federal Government has taken legal action against five retired senior police officers over alleged falsification of age and forgery, but their arraignment was once again delayed on Thursday at the Federal Capital Territory High Court in Maitama.
The officers, identified as retired Assistant Inspector General of Police Idowu Owohunwa, retired Commissioners of Police Benneth Igweh and Ukachi Peter Opara, retired Deputy Commissioner of Police Obo Ukam Obo, and retired Assistant Commissioner of Police Simon A. Lough (SAN), are facing a 14-count charge filed by the Inspector-General of Police.
They are accused of altering their official records in order to remain in service beyond the mandatory retirement age. The case also involves allegations of forgery, false declarations, and the use of forged documents in both police files and court proceedings.
At the court sitting, the prosecution explained that several attempts to serve the defendants with the charges were not successful. Efforts to reach them at their last known addresses and through WhatsApp reportedly failed because they had changed their locations. The prosecution asked the court to issue an arrest order, but this was opposed by the defence, who argued that criminal charges can only proceed after personal service.
Justice Yusuf Halilu ruled that serving the defendants in person was necessary before any further step could be taken. He described the request for a bench warrant as not proper at this stage and reminded the prosecution that it is their duty to bring the defendants to court. The judge noted that the officers had earlier been granted bail on self-recognisance and must appear in person.
The court fixed November 17 for arraignment and directed both sides to ensure the retired officers are present on the next date.