The planned arraignment of five former police officers accused of falsifying their ages was on Thursday stalled following their absence in court. The case, which was scheduled for hearing at the Federal High Court, drew attention due to the seriousness of the allegations and the involvement of multiple retired security personnel.
According to court records, the five defendants were expected to take their plea over charges bordering on alleged manipulation of official records to extend their service years while in the Nigeria Police Force. The development, prosecutors argue, contravenes public service rules and undermines integrity within the security system.
However, when the matter was called, none of the accused ex-officers were present in court, prompting the prosecution to raise concerns over possible deliberate attempts to frustrate proceedings. Their absence forced the court to adjourn the case, pending further directives and efforts to secure the attendance of the defendants.
The presiding judge expressed displeasure over the failure of the defendants to appear, stressing that their presence was necessary for the legal process to take off. He warned that the court would not hesitate to issue appropriate orders, including bench warrants, should the former officers continue to evade arraignment.
Sources familiar with the case disclosed that the alleged falsification was uncovered during routine service record audits within the police system. Investigators reportedly found discrepancies in age declarations, raising suspicions that the officers deliberately altered their birth records to prolong their careers and benefits.
The prosecution has vowed to pursue the matter to a logical conclusion, insisting that cases of falsification must be addressed decisively to preserve the credibility of the country’s institutions. Legal analysts note that if found guilty, the accused could face sanctions ranging from loss of benefits to criminal penalties.
The matter has now been adjourned to a later date, with the expectation that the defendants will be compelled to appear in court to face the charges. Observers say the case will serve as a litmus test for accountability within Nigeria’s security services, particularly in tackling issues of fraud and misconduct among former personnel.
