By Yemi Monday, Bauchi
Former Director General of the National Commission for the Coordination and Control of Proliferation of Small Arms and Light Weapons (NATCOM), Dr Baba Mohammed, has been suspended by the Nigerian Transparency Group.
The Group, which is committed to promoting integrity, accountability, and transparency within the public sector of the country, said the suspension is in line with its principles.
In a statement on Monday by the Press Secretary, Dauda Sani, the group said the suspension of the NATCOM DG, Mohammed, is as a result of “grave allegations of extortion, misappropriation of funds, and his involvement in job racketeering with applicants.
“These actions undermine the trust and integrity essential to the functioning of NATCOM, an organization tasked with a critical mission in the nation.
“Furthermore, we would like to highlight that Mr. Baba Muhammad is currently under investigation by the Nigerian Police Force for his alleged breach of trust and misconduct.
“Regrettably, he has refused to honor the police force’s invitations for questioning, which only deepens the concerns surrounding his actions.”
Stating that the Nigerian Transparency Group firmly believes in the importance of upholding the highest ethical standards in public service, the statement calls “upon all relevant authorities to ensure a thorough and impartial investigation into these allegations. The public deserves to have confidence in the institutions that are responsible for their safety and security.
“We will closely monitor developments in this case and continue to advocate for transparency and accountability within Nigeria’s public institutions.”
Efforts to get across to Dr Baba Mohammed for reactions proved abortive as his phone number could not be accessed as of the time of filling this report.