National Assembly and Villa Politicians Misused Advanced Surveillance Technology Meant for Security Operations

A former top-ranking police official has exposed the misuse of an advanced tracking system, initially created to combat serious crimes like kidnapping and terrorism. According to this retired officer, certain high-profile politicians, including those within the National Assembly and the Presidential Villa, diverted the system for personal surveillance, using it to monitor rivals and mistresses rather than its intended purpose.

In a candid interview with a national daily, the retired officer detailed how this advanced tracking technology, which had previously played a pivotal role in apprehending criminals, was repurposed over time to serve political interests.

The tracking infrastructure was introduced in 2015, during Solomon Arase’s tenure as Inspector-General of Police. Its primary function was to enable real-time tracking of kidnappers, aiding in swift arrests and the rescue of victims. The system was initially celebrated for its success in cases such as the high-profile rescue operation involving the kidnapping of former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Chief Olu Falae. In that instance, the system’s precise tracking capabilities were critical in apprehending the kidnappers and securing Chief Falae’s release.

However, as successive police leadership took over, priorities shifted. The system, which was once the backbone of strategic operations, started being exploited for non-criminal purposes. The technology, intended to be a national security asset, was reportedly handed over to a small circle of politicians who used it to monitor their personal adversaries. This diversion of purpose not only compromised the integrity of the system but also undermined its effectiveness in combatting crime.

A crucial factor contributing to the decline of this once-effective system was the merging of its technical and operational aspects under a single leadership, a move the retired officer criticized. He explained that the merging of these roles made it easier for politicians to influence the use of the system, turning it into a tool for political gain rather than crime prevention.

Furthermore, the platform’s functionality began to deteriorate due to neglect. Successive police administrations failed to renew essential subscriptions necessary for the system’s operation and maintenance, leading to its gradual decline. As the technology evolved, the system was left outdated and eventually became inoperative.

The current Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has since attempted to revitalize the tracking system. However, its potential remains largely untapped, and kidnappers continue to operate with impunity in various parts of the country.