NEMA suspends directors over EFCC probe

The Governing Council of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), has suspended five directors and chief maintenance officer of the agency indefinitely.

This is contained in a statement by the Head Media and Public Relations (NEMA), Sani Datti in Abuja, and made available to Sunday Tribune.

He said the suspension of the affected officials by the newly-inaugurated Council was in connection with the ongoing probe of the finances of NEMA by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

Mr. Sani Datti said, the EFCC had in a report to the Presidency recommended the disciplinary measure in order to enable it to conduct unhindered investigation and have access to vital records.

Sani, however, said based on the EFCC’s recommendation, the Governing Council of NEMA approved the suspension and directed the management to give effect to its decision.

He said the financial years being reviewed by the anti-graft agency are from 2011 to 2015.

The NEMA spokesperson said those placed on suspension were the Director of Finance and Accounts, Akinbola Hakeem Gbolahan; Ag. Director, Special Duties, Mr. UmesiEmenike;  Director, Disaster Risk Reduction, Mallam Alhassan Nuhu; Pilot in-charge of Air Ambulance and Aviation Unit, Mr. Mamman Ali Ibrahim; Deputy Director of Welfare, Mr. Kanar Mohammed; and the  Chief Maintenance Officer, Mr. Ganiyu Yunusa Deji.

He added that the Governing Council, as a result of the investigation, had mandated the management of NEMA to cooperate fully with the EFCC in the ongoing probe.