Nigerian Police Force Descent into Shameless Extortion
In a shocking expose that reads more like a dystopian novel than reality, recent reports have unveiled the disturbing depths to which some members of the Nigerian Police Force have sunk. Under the guise of “stop-and-search” operations, these rogue officers have transformed roadblocks into personal ATMs, shamelessly begging and extorting money from hapless motorists. This disgraceful behavior not only mocks the very essence of law enforcement but also erodes the already fragile trust between the police and the public.
The accounts are appalling. From Lagos to Oyo, from Imo to Delta, the stories are distressingly similar. Officers flagging down vehicles not to ensure public safety, but to demand “anything for the boys.” Drivers, already struggling in a harsh economic climate, are forced to part with hard-earned money – sometimes as much as N700 in a single trip – just to avoid harassment or delays. This isn’t just corruption; it’s a brazen form of highway robbery, perpetrated by those sworn to protect and serve.
What’s most galling is the audacity of these corrupt officers. They don’t even pretend to carry out their duties anymore. There’s no searching of vehicles, no checking of documents. It’s a straight-up shakedown, with officers openly negotiating bribes and even getting angry when drivers can’t pay up. The fact that this happens in broad daylight, often captured on camera by brave citizens, shows just how emboldened these bad apples have become.
The impact of this corruption is far-reaching. It places an additional financial burden on citizens already grappling with inflation and economic hardship. More insidiously, it normalizes corruption, sending a message that bribery is just part of daily life in Nigeria. This mentality seeps into every corner of society, perpetuating a cycle of graft that hinders national development.
But perhaps the most damaging impact is on public trust. How can citizens feel safe when those meant to protect them are the very ones exploiting them? This breakdown in trust has serious implications for law and order. People become less likely to report crimes, cooperate with investigations, or view the police as allies. In a country battling serious security challenges, this trust deficit is a luxury Nigeria cannot afford.
It’s heartening to see the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, speaking out against this menace. His call for citizens to resist extortion and report infractions is a step in the right direction. But words alone are not enough. The public needs to see concrete actions: corrupt officers not just suspended, but dismissed and prosecuted; internal oversight mechanisms strengthened; and a zero-tolerance policy for any form of extortion.
Technology can play a role here. As suggested by experts, body cameras for officers and dashcams in police vehicles can deter misconduct and provide evidence for investigations. But technology is just a tool. The real change must come from within the force – a renewed commitment to integrity, professionalism, and public service.
The Nigerian Constitution and various laws are clear: extortion by police officers is a serious crime. It violates fundamental rights to dignity, liberty, and freedom of movement. Yet, the persistence of this practice suggests a systemic failure in enforcement. The relevant bodies – the Police Service Commission, the EFCC, the ICPC – must step up. Corruption within the police force should be treated with the same vigor as any other economic crime.
In conclusion, the transformation of police roadblocks into begging centers is more than an embarrassment; it’s a national crisis. It undermines the rule of law, cripples public trust, and paints Nigeria in a poor light internationally. The brave officers who uphold their duties with integrity are tainted by association. It’s time for a radical overhaul – one that purges the force of corruption, upholds the highest standards of conduct, and restores the Nigerian Police Force to its rightful place as guardians of public safety and order. The alternative is a continued descent into lawlessness, where the line between the protectors and the predators becomes hopelessly blurred.
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Without shame: Policemen abandon stop-and-search duties, turn roadblocks into begging centres published in punch