Coalition faults arrest of whistleblower who exposed ‘police payroll fraud’

The Coalition for Whistleblowers Protection and Press Freedom (CWPPF) has condemned the arrest of Mubarak Bello, whistleblower, by the police command in Katsina.

In a statement, CWPPF said Bello was arrested after he uncovered a decade-long scheme involving senior finance officers who allegedly created ghost workers on police payroll and diverted their salaries.

THE ARREST 

Last Sunday, the police command in Katsina arrested Bello for alleged unlawful possession of a firearm and impersonation as an officer with the force.

In a statement, Abubakar Aliyu, Katsina police spokesperson, said Bello was arrested when operatives noticed suspicious movements during their patrol.

Bello was said to have uncovered a scheme involving senior finance officers who allegedly created ghost workers on police payroll and diverted their salaries.

The whistleblower was said to have petitioned the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Independent Corrupt Practices and other related Offences Commission (ICPC) and the attorney-general of the federation over the scheme.

After submitting the petition, Bello was reportedly subjected to intimidation and harassment, including the brutal attacks by thugs with machetes in October 2024.

The whistleblower coalition said instead of the police authorities investigating the alleged fraud, they are victimising Bello, who exposed the scheme.

CWPPF demanded the unconditional release of Bello and dropped the charges against him.

“The CWPPF finds it utterly disturbing that the police, rather than investigating the credible allegations of corruption within their ranks, have chosen to victimise the whistleblower,” the statement reads.

“The CWPPF, therefore, demands that the Nigerian Police Force and all relevant government agencies must provide immediate and round-the-clock protection for Mubarak Bello and his family. His life is in grave danger, and the state has a duty to ensure his safety.

“Mr. Bello must be immediately and unconditionally released from custody with all charges against him, which were arbitrarily trumped up for the purpose of his illegal arrest dropped.

“We demand an independent and impartial investigation into the payroll fraud at the Katsina State Police Command and the subsequent hounding of Mr. Bello.

“This investigation must be conducted by a body outside of the police force to ensure its credibility.

“All individuals found culpable in the payroll racket, the obstruction of justice, and the attacks on Mr. Bello, no matter their rank or position, must be immediately prosecuted to the full extent of the law.

“The case of Mubarak Bello is a litmus test for the Nigerian government’s professed commitment to fighting corruption and protecting whistleblowers.

“Failure to act decisively and in clear adherence to the rule of law sends a clear message to all Nigerians that they are on their own if they dare to speak out against the powerful.

“Rather than arbitrarily hounding him, Mr. Bello is a patriotic Nigerian that should be honoured by the federal government of Nigeria to encourage other citizens to embrace the courageous path of speaking up when they have vital information that could aid the fight against corruption.

“The CWPPF will not stand by and watch as a courageous citizen is hunted down for doing what is right. We will continue to monitor this case closely and ensure that justice is served for Mubarak Bello.”