“Former NILDS DG, Prof Ladi Hamalai, Faces Additional Charges in Ongoing ICPC Trial”
Indications suggest that Prof Ladi Hamalai, the former Director-General of the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS), will face additional charges in her ongoing prosecution by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Related Offences Commission (ICPC). The ICPC is currently pursuing a four-count charge against Hamalai, alleging corruption in her tenure at NILDS.
The Commission alleges that Hamalai misused her office by requesting funds for renting a guest house but instead used the money to purchase a property for herself in Abuja. Additionally, she is accused of soliciting funds for furnishing the building as a government guest house.
The potential for additional charges arose following a petition lodged against Hamalai by staff of NILDS. The petition, dated May 19, 2024, and addressed to the ICPC chairman, raised concerns about various acts of misconduct by Hamalai during her tenure, including alleged embezzlement related to the construction of the NILDS headquarters.
The petition also accuses Hamalai of illegal refusal to remit deducted staff salaries to the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), resulting in double taxation for NILDS staff. Furthermore, it alleges violations of constitutional provisions regarding staff rights to join trade unions, as well as violations of laws regarding retirement age and acceptance of chieftaincy titles while in service.
ICPC Director of Legal, Mr Henry Emore, confirmed that the Commission would investigate the fresh allegations before considering additional charges against Hamalai. The case against Hamalai is ongoing, with a recent court order for her arrest issued due to her repeated failure to appear in court for trial.
The matter underscores the ongoing efforts to hold public officials accountable for alleged misconduct, with the ICPC diligently pursuing allegations of corruption and malfeasance in government agencies.