Nigeria police

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Nigeria Police Force has transferred a wanted suspect, Matthew Chukwuemeka Adebiyi, to the United Kingdom over alleged links to murder and drug trafficking offences.

Authorities disclosed that the extradition followed a request from the United Kingdom in September 2024. The request asked Nigerian authorities to locate, arrest, and hand over the suspect. The process was handled through the INTERPOL National Central Bureau in Abuja.

Force Public Relations Officer, Anthony Placide, explained in a statement on Thursday that Adebiyi had been declared wanted in connection with the killing of Joshua Boadu on June 18, 2018. He said the suspect allegedly fled to Nigeria after the incident to avoid arrest.

Placide also stated that the suspect faced accusations of supplying crack cocaine, described as a Class-A controlled drug, within the UK between October 2017 and March 2018.

He said, “The suspect was arrested on 23rd January 2025 by operatives of the INTERPOL NCB Abuja, following which extradition proceedings were initiated at the Federal High Court, Lagos Judicial Division, in Suit No. FHC/L/CS/416/2025.”

The police noted that the Federal High Court in Lagos approved the extradition request on February 16, 2026, in line with existing legal provisions.

The statement added, “Pursuant to the court order and the execution of a surrender warrant by the relevant Nigerian authorities, the fugitive was formally handed over to United Kingdom law enforcement officials on 14th April 2026 at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport for diligent prosecution.”

Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, reiterated the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to cooperation with international partners. He stressed that the country would not provide refuge for individuals evading justice.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

A group of officers recruited into the Nigeria Police Force in 2018 has written to the Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu, over a delay in their promotion, which they say has affected their earnings and career growth.

In a petition dated April 15, 2026, and addressed to the IGP at the Force Headquarters in Abuja, the officers requested a review of their promotion timeline and salary structure. They argued that their case differs from that of other intakes.

The officers opened their letter with a message of goodwill. They said, “On behalf of 2018 Recruits Intake, we the undersigned, wish to congratulate the Inspector General of Police on your appointment as the 23rd Indigenous Inspector General of Police… may God grant you wisdom and strength to lead the Nigeria Police Force.”

They stated that they have served with dedication since joining the force. According to them, their efforts have not been reflected in their advancement.

“It is pertinent to state that members of the 2018 intake have served diligently and meritoriously since enlistment, discharging our duties with commitment, loyalty, and professionalism in line with the core values of the Nigeria Police Force,” the letter read.

The officers pointed to a delay in their promotion, which they said came much later than expected. They explained that the exercise was carried out on May 23, 2023, almost a year behind schedule.

“Despite our dedication, there appears to be a delay/disparity in the implementation of our promotion timelines when compared with other intakes. The said promotion was only implemented on the 23rd of May, 2023, resulting in a delay of approximately eleven (11) months beyond the recognized promotion timeline,” the letter said.

They noted that the situation has affected their welfare and financial position. They linked their salaries and benefits directly to their promotion status.

“This situation has inadvertently affected our career progression, morale, and financial standing, as our salaries and entitlements are directly tied to our promotion status,” they said.

The officers appealed to the police leadership to correct what they described as an anomaly. They asked for an adjustment of their promotion dates and a review of their pay.

“We respectfully appeal for the adjustment of our promotion dates and the corresponding review of our salaries,” they stated.

They also outlined steps they expect the authorities to take. These include directives to the appropriate departments to implement changes and settle any outstanding arrears.

“Approve the adjustment of promotion dates for officers of the 2018 Regular Recruits Intake, direct the Police Accounts and Budget to effect the corresponding salary adjustments and arrears where applicable,” they said.

Copies of the petition were sent to the Deputy Inspector-General of Police in charge of Finance and Administration at the Force Headquarters.

The officers reaffirmed their commitment to the Nigeria Police Force and expressed hope that their concerns would receive prompt attention.

“We remain loyal, disciplined, and committed to the service of our great nation and the Nigeria Police Force. We trust in your kind consideration and fatherly intervention in this matter,” they added.