The Nigeria Police Force has invited social media activist Martins Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan, to provide evidence for his claim that some police officers stationed at checkpoints share information about wealthy travellers with kidnappers and bandits.
The police made the move on Thursday following remarks made by the activist at the Nigerian Bar Association conference in Port Harcourt, Rivers State. Otse had alleged that some officers on major highways identify wealthy people travelling through their checkpoints and pass details of their movements to criminal groups, who then use the information to plan kidnappings for ransom.
The Force Public Relations Officer, Ani Iniedu, said the police had taken note of the allegation and considered it a serious matter that required evidence. The Force said it was prepared to examine any information provided by Otse and take appropriate action if the claims were proven.
According to the police, the activist is expected to present whatever evidence he has to support his allegations, including information showing that officers at checkpoints deliberately identify wealthy travellers and provide their details to kidnappers.
The Force said allegations of this nature could not be treated as established facts without supporting evidence, especially because they involve the conduct of police officers and the safety of members of the public.
The police also defended officers working at checkpoints across the country, saying their main duties include preventing crime, detecting suspicious activities and protecting motorists and other road users.
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The Force noted that police personnel regularly confront kidnappers, bandits and other violent criminals during their operations. It added that officers and police facilities have been attacked by criminal groups, with some personnel losing their lives while carrying out their duties.
However, the police said it would not protect any officer found to have worked with criminals. Officers proven to have compromised their duties would be subjected to disciplinary action and could also face prosecution under the law.
The Force urged members of the public who have information about police misconduct to report it through the proper channels. It said credible complaints would be investigated rather than ignored.
The police also warned against making broad accusations against its personnel without evidence, saying such claims could affect the morale of officers and reduce public confidence in law enforcement.
The invitation to VeryDarkMan comes amid growing public concern over kidnapping and insecurity on Nigerian roads. The activist’s allegation has now placed the police under pressure to establish whether any officers are involved in providing information to criminal groups.
The Force said it remains open to legitimate criticism and public complaints but wants allegations involving national security and the conduct of its personnel to be backed by verifiable evidence.
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