CISLAC Demands Probe Of Alleged Diversion Of ₦36.9bn Kogi Security Fund
Questions over the management of security funds in Nigeria have resurfaced as the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) and Transparency International Nigeria call for an urgent investigation into the alleged diversion of ₦36.9 billion from Kogi State’s security accounts.
The anti-corruption organisation on Monday urged the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), the Nigeria Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU), and other relevant agencies to launch a comprehensive probe into transactions linked to the Kogi State Security Operation Account.
According to CISLAC, financial intelligence findings indicate that more than ₦36.9 billion was paid into the account within a nine-month period, with about ₦23.7 billion allegedly transferred to Real Striker Finance Limited.
The organisation also claimed that over ₦12.53 billion was disbursed to various individuals and private companies without clear public justification.
Among the beneficiaries named in the records are Abdullahi Ayisat Omonale, Peter Enehezeyi Ozavize, Dange Security Patrol, and G and T Motors Nigeria Limited.
CISLAC expressed concern over reports that Real Striker Finance Limited was established shortly after the election of the current administration and is allegedly linked to politically exposed persons, including a former security adviser to ex-Governor Yahaya Bello.
Executive Director of CISLAC and Head of Transparency International Nigeria, Auwal Ibrahim Musa (Rafsanjani), said the allegations, if proven, point to a disturbing misuse of public resources meant to address insecurity in the state.
The organisation called for a forensic audit of the account, investigation of all beneficiaries, recovery of any misappropriated funds, and prosecution of individuals found culpable regardless of political affiliation.
CISLAC further criticised the country’s security vote system, describing it as one of the weakest areas in Nigeria’s public finance management framework due to limited transparency and oversight.
The group also urged Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo and relevant Kogi State officials to cooperate fully with investigators and provide complete transparency regarding the management of public funds.
It noted that the allegations come at a time when Kogi State continues to grapple with security challenges, including kidnappings, killings, and persistent unrest, stressing that public resources meant for security must serve the interests of citizens rather than private enrichment.
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