Police Dismiss Bribery Claims Amid Ongoing Business Dispute Investigation In Kaduna
The Nigerian Police Force has dismissed recent allegations of bribery against officers investigating a high-profile commercial dispute between two Kaduna-based business entities.
Reports had circulated, notably by Sahara Reporters, claiming that officers from the Force Intelligence Department (FID), including Deputy Inspector General Benjamin Nebolisa Okolo and others, demanded a ₦750,000 bribe from one of the parties involved.
However, a review of the case has found no evidence to support the claims.
The investigation stems from a failed ₦819 million supply deal between Nostromo Trading Nigeria Ltd and its vendor, Mr Aliyu Abba, CEO of Multi Business Ventures.
A shortfall of over ₦150 million was discovered after the transaction.
Police became involved after Mr Sajith Mahdu, an Indian national and procurement officer at Nostromo, filed a petition with the Inspector General of Police, alleging the unlawful seizure of his passport and non-payment of ten months’ salary.
The claims led to a formal investigation by the FID.
As part of the probe, Mr Abba was arraigned on Monday, 4 August, and later granted bail. He is currently facing charges related to the disputed funds, with Mr Mahdu serving as a key prosecution witness.
According to police records, while Mr Abba’s company received over ₦948 million, the value of goods delivered was reportedly just over ₦835 million, leaving a significant amount unaccounted for.
The matter remains before the courts as legal proceedings continue.
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