By Amuda Dan Sulaiman Fab
Fresh turmoil has erupted within the Nigeria Legion, Kogi State Command, as members have accused the outgoing chairman, David Salahu, of diverting official vehicles and allegedly mismanaging ₦60 million belonging to the association.
The allegations were raised on Friday during the official assumption of office by the new chairman.
According to members, Salahu reportedly carted away all vehicles meant for the legion shortly before leaving office, including a pickup truck donated for women under the widows’ empowerment programme.
He was also accused of selling the women’s vehicle without approval.
Members further claimed that the outgoing chairman did not hand over a single kobo, document, or asset to the new leadership, leaving the command financially stranded.
They alleged that about ₦60 million generated during his tenure could not be accounted for.
The situation intensified when journalists sought clarifications from Salahu.
Eyewitnesses said he flew into a rage and threatened the reporters, including this reporter, inside his office at Adankolo, Lokoja, forcing everyone to leave the premises abruptly.
Reacting to the development, the state leader of the widows’ wing, Mrs. Junmai Lanus, who visited the office with all her members, condemned the alleged diversion of legion assets and funds.
She called on concerned authorities to thoroughly investigate the past chairman, stressing that widows must not be denied the resources meant for their welfare.
Mrs. Lanus added that the widows were happy with the change of leadership, expressing confidence that the new administration would bring transparency and accountability back to the command.
Several members of the legion also voiced concern that the alleged mismanagement could undermine the welfare of ex-servicemen and their families, many of whom rely on the association for support in times of need.
“We are deeply disappointed,” one member said, “and we hope the new leadership will restore order and ensure that such incidents do not recur.”
Observers noted that the controversy could affect the public image of the legion in Kogi State, as citizens and stakeholders closely monitor the association’s activities.
Calls have intensified for relevant government authorities and security agencies to probe the matter and ensure full accountability.
The new chairman has assured members that efforts will be made to reconcile the leadership and members, restore proper records, and recover any missing assets.
He also pledged to implement more robust financial controls to prevent future abuse of office.
Efforts to reach the outgoing chairman for comments were unsuccessful as he did not respond to calls or messages as of the time of filing this report.
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