The Spokesperson of the Nigeria Police Force, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, has strongly criticized police personnel who misuse their authority to extort money from Nigerian citizens, likening them to armed robbers. His remarks came in response to allegations of misconduct by a crypto trader and influencer who claimed to have been arrested and extorted by the police.
The crypto trader accused the police of forcibly entering his estate without a search warrant, detaining all the men living there, and accusing them of involvement in internet fraud. He also asserted that the police took money from him and others, totaling half a million naira.
In response, a user tagged the Force Public Relations Officer (PRO) and called for action, stating, “As PRO of Nigeria Police Force do something to this dirty stuff your mates always do every day. Police are your friend indeed.”
Adejobi offered a response, seeking more details about the situation. He questioned whether the detained individual’s lawyer had arrived, whether the money was paid in the presence of a lawyer, and why the individual didn’t call someone if a lawyer was not present. He emphasized the need for clarification and highlighted the importance of a lawyer’s role in such situations.
Another user shared old comments by the Force PRO condemning police extortion. In response, Adejobi reiterated his stance, stating, “Yes, this still stands. Any armed policeman or security operative who forcefully extorts an innocent Nigerian is as good as an armed robber.” He stressed that extortion was not part of any agency’s mandate and was unequivocally condemned, even by the Inspector General of Police (IGP).
Adejobi clarified that the IGP had warned officers not to use his name for extortion or accept gifts on his behalf. He expressed disappointment that the victim had paid the officers after initial resistance, urging individuals not to continue enabling such behavior. He concluded by reiterating that his assertion was clear and questioned the necessity of paying erring policemen.
