ISPON petitions police over conference disruption and impersonation

The Institute of Safety Professionals of Nigeria (ISPON) has petitioned the Nigeria Police Force following the disruption of its annual conference in Lokoja, Kogi State. The institute’s president, Engr. Timothy Iwagwu, alleged that expelled former members, specifically identifying Sani Friday Makama, stormed the event and forced organizers to cancel proceedings midway.

ISPON further accused Makama of impersonation, claiming he has been operating an unauthorized office and presenting himself as the Kogi State chairman of the institute. The petition alleges that Makama has been conducting unauthorized safety audits and representing himself as a safety consultant to the Kogi State Government.

The Kogi State Government has distanced itself from the incident, stating the alleged conduct is inconsistent with the administration's character. ISPON reported significant financial losses due to the disruption and has requested an investigation by the Assistant Inspector-General of Police, Zone 8 Command, regarding the unauthorized use of the organization's identity.