NIGERIA: ‘Upright’ Policeman Who Rejected $200,000 Bribe Converts To Islam, Receives Award

By Onoja Baba, Nigeria

Assistant Commissioner of Police Daniel Amah, celebrated nationwide for rejecting a $200,000 bribe in 2022, has embraced Islam.

The conversion ceremony took place on Tuesday at the palace of the Emir of Kano, Muhammad Sanusi II, where Amah officially adopted the name “Muhammad” and also received an award.

The private event was marked by prayers and words of encouragement from the Emir, who emphasized the importance of learning Islamic teachings and practicing the faith.

Speaking in Hausa, the Emir urged Amah to uphold the five pillars of Islam—faith in Allah, daily prayers, fasting during Ramadan, pilgrimage to Mecca, and Zakat (charitable giving).

The Emir also prayed for Allah’s guidance to help Amah become an exemplary Muslim, urging him to maintain his well-known integrity and respect for his parents, regardless of their religious beliefs.

Amah’s remarkable integrity first came to light in April 2022, while serving as the Divisional Police Officer in Nasarawa Local Government Area, Kano State.

He rejected a $200,000 bribe offered by armed robbery suspects who had stolen over ₦300 million during a heist targeting a Bureau De Change operator carrying $750,000 in cash.

The prime suspect, Ali Zaki, was a key player in the plot, coordinating with the robbers to trail and attack their victim. Amah’s decision to report the bribe attempt earned him national and international acclaim for his uprightness.

In recognition of his integrity, the Police Service Commission promoted Amah to Assistant Commissioner of Police on November 10, 2022, elevating him from his previous rank as Chief Superintendent of Police.

Former President Muhammadu Buhari also acknowledged Amah’s exemplary conduct by presenting him with the prestigious 2022 Public Service Integrity Award. The honor followed a recommendation by Prof. Bolaji Owasanoye, Chairman of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), in a letter dated September 13, 2022.