Police Summon Officers Caught Extorting Passengers in Viral Video

The Nigeria Police Force has taken disciplinary action against officers seen in a viral video extorting motorists along the Benin Bypass in Edo State. The officers in question were captured demanding ₦5,000 or five litres of petrol from passengers as a condition for passage, allegedly citing non-compliance with the Electronic Central Motor Registry (ECMR) registration despite the policy being suspended since July 2024.

In response to the growing public outcry, the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, confirmed that the officers involved have been identified and summoned to the Force Headquarters in Abuja. According to Adejobi, the officers’ actions grossly violated the ethics of the police profession and would not be tolerated.

“The officers involved in this misconduct have been summoned for immediate disciplinary action. The Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has ordered a full investigation and reiterates the Force’s zero tolerance for corruption and abuse of power,” Adejobi stated.

The video, which rapidly gained traction on social media, shows passengers questioning the legitimacy of the officers’ demands. Their refusal to comply without legal basis has been widely praised by Nigerians, reigniting discussions around police reform and accountability.

Meanwhile, the Edo State Police Command confirmed its collaboration with the headquarters to ensure justice is served, emphasizing that rogue elements within the Force would be weeded out.

This latest development highlights the continuing challenge of rooting out extortion and unprofessional conduct in Nigeria’s law enforcement agencies. Citizens and civil society groups are calling for transparent disciplinary proceedings and regular training to promote integrity and accountability within the police force.