The Nigeria Police Force has urged Nigerians to stop bribing police officers at checkpoints, warning that this only encourages corruption and extortion. Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, made this statement in response to complaints of police extortion on social media.
Adejobi advised motorists to rather be delayed at checkpoints than give bribes, emphasizing that individuals have a role to play in curbing the menace of extortion. He stated, “We all need to play our role to curb the menace of extortion… It’s better to be delayed at their points than to dignify corruption or extortion.”
This warning comes amidst public outcry over police extortion and brutality in South-East Nigeria and across the country. The police spokesperson’s comments have sparked a debate on social media, with some users expressing frustration and others supporting the call to end bribery.
The Nigeria Police Force has faced numerous allegations of extortion, harassment, and intimidation, with students and motorists being targeted. The force’s warning is seen as a step towards addressing these issues, but many believe more concrete actions are needed to tackle the problem.