“‘Killer’ Allegations, $1.6bn Scandal: The Storm That Forced Fakorede Out of Power”

By Passman Akpos

A leadership shake-up has taken place within the Nigeria Police Force as Deputy Commissioner of Police Aliyu Abubakar has officially assumed command of the Police Monitoring Team, replacing Commissioner of Police Akin Fakorede.

The transition is being viewed as part of a broader effort to strengthen internal oversight, improve accountability, and reinforce discipline across the force.

Sources familiar with the development disclosed that Abubakar has been given a clear and firm mandate to ensure strict monitoring of officers’ conduct, thorough investigation of reported misconduct, and full compliance with directives issued by the Inspector General of Police, Olatunji Disu.

According to insiders, the Police Monitoring Team under Abubakar will also handle special assignments and additional responsibilities as directed by the IGP, signaling a renewed focus on professionalism and operational integrity.

Fakorede’s Exit and Controversial Record

The appointment follows the removal of Fakorede from his role as head of the IGP Monitoring Unit earlier in March 2026. He was subsequently placed on mandatory leave, with plans to resume after 40 days as Commissioner of Police in charge of Research.

Fakorede, who previously led the now-disbanded Special Anti-Robbery Squad, had faced sustained criticism from human rights groups over allegations of brutality, extrajudicial killings, and misconduct during his tenure.

Civil society organisations had earlier warned that his leadership of the monitoring unit could erode public trust, citing a history of alleged abuses and controversial actions.

His tenure was further marred by accusations of bias and unprofessional conduct, including his reported involvement in a disputed case at River Park Estate in Abuja, where he was accused of siding against foreign investors. The situation escalated in January 2026 when operatives under his command allegedly clashed with journalists and workers during a protest at the estate.

Wike’s Public Criticism

Former Rivers State governor and current FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, had also publicly criticised Fakorede, describing him as a “killer” and accusing him of a pattern of brutality and interference in electoral processes.

Speaking during a television interview, Wike recalled Fakorede’s time in charge of SARS operations in Rivers State, alleging that his actions undermined democratic processes and public safety. He further claimed that the Independent National Electoral Commission had previously raised concerns about Fakorede’s involvement in election duties.

Allegations of Shielding Fraud Suspect

Adding to the controversy, an earlier investigation alleged that Fakorede played a role in shielding suspected international fraudster Jesam Michael, CEO of Afriq Arbitrage System.

According to sources, despite mounting evidence that Michael defrauded tens of thousands of investors and processed hundreds of thousands of illicit transactions, Fakorede allegedly dismissed claims against him and maintained his innocence.

The investigation reportedly uncovered that as much as $1.6 billion was traced to Michael’s digital wallet, raising serious concerns about oversight lapses within the police system.

A Test for Reform

With Abubakar now at the helm, observers say his leadership will be critical in restoring credibility to the Police Monitoring Team and ensuring accountability within the force.

His appointment is widely seen as a decisive step toward rebuilding public trust, at a time when scrutiny of police conduct and internal discipline remains high across Nigeria.