- Police have invited VeryDarkMan to provide evidence supporting his allegations against checkpoint officers.
- The activist alleged that some officers identify wealthy travellers and share information with kidnappers.
- The Nigeria Police Force says any credible evidence of misconduct will be investigated.
The Nigeria Police Force has invited social media activist Martins Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan, to provide evidence supporting his allegations that some police officers at checkpoints collaborate with kidnappers and bandits.
Eko Hot Blog reports that the Force said it took note of comments made by Otse during the recent Nigerian Bar Association conference in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
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VeryDarkMan had alleged that some police officers stationed at checkpoints along major highways identify wealthy travellers and pass information about their identities and movements to kidnappers, making it easier for the victims to be abducted for ransom.
Reacting to the allegation, the police described the claims as serious and said they were not supported by evidence.
In a statement issued by the Force Public Relations Officer, Ani Iniedu, the police said allegations of such magnitude required credible evidence.
The Force consequently asked Martins Vincent Otse to present any evidence supporting his claims, including proof that police personnel identify potential victims and relay their information to kidnappers.
The police said any evidence submitted by the activist would be treated with urgency and thoroughly investigated.
It also urged Nigerians with credible information about police misconduct to report such cases through appropriate channels to enable proper investigation and action.
The Force maintained that officers deployed to checkpoints across the country were assigned to prevent and detect crime and protect citizens, not assist criminal groups.
According to the police, its personnel regularly confront kidnappers, terrorists and other criminal elements, with several officers losing their lives during operations and attacks.
The statement added that police stations, formations and operational assets had also been targeted by violent criminal groups.
The police, however, acknowledged that any officer found to have compromised their duties would face disciplinary action and possible prosecution in line with the law.
The Force cautioned against sweeping allegations against the institution, saying unverified claims could affect the morale of officers and weaken public confidence in the police.
It called on members of the public to act responsibly when making allegations involving national security institutions, stressing the need to distinguish between legitimate criticism aimed at promoting accountability and claims that have not been supported with evidence.
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