the Nigeria Police Force has summoned officers caught in a viral video allegedly extorting ₦5,000 from motorists. The incident, which unfolded on May 26, 2025, has thrust the issue of police misconduct back into the national spotlight, raising fresh questions about accountability and reform within the force. As the video continues to circulate on social media platforms, igniting debates and demands for justice, the Nigeria Police Force has vowed to take decisive action. Here’s a detailed look at the incident, the response from authorities, and what it means for the future of policing in Nigeria.
The Viral Video That Shocked the Nation
The incident came to public attention through a video that rapidly gained traction across social media platforms, particularly on X, on May 26, 2025. The footage, recorded by an unidentified motorist, captured a disturbing interaction between police officers and drivers at a checkpoint. In the video, an officer is seen demanding either ₦5,000 or five liters of fuel from motorists who could not produce proof of compliance with the Electronic Central Motor Registry (e-CMR) system. The officer’s brazen tone and casual approach to the extortion attempt left viewers stunned, as it appeared to be a routine practice rather than an isolated incident.
The e-CMR system, introduced by the Nigeria Police Force to digitize vehicle registration and enhance security, requires motorists to carry proof of compliance. However, the system has faced criticism for its implementation challenges, including technical glitches and lack of public awareness. In this case, the officers appeared to exploit these challenges, targeting drivers who were either unaware of the requirements or unable to comply due to systemic issues. The video’s raw depiction of corruption—set against the backdrop of everyday life on Nigerian roads—resonated deeply with citizens, many of whom have long complained about similar experiences at police checkpoints.
The Power of Social Media
As the video spread like wildfire, it triggered a wave of reactions on X and other platforms. Nigerians expressed their frustration, with many sharing personal stories of extortion and harassment by police officers. Hashtags like #EndPoliceExtortion and #ReformNPF began trending, amplifying the call for accountability. The video’s virality underscored the growing role of social media in exposing misconduct and holding authorities accountable. For many, the footage was not just evidence of a single incident but a stark reminder of systemic issues within the Nigeria Police Force, including allegations of corruption, abuse of power, and lack of oversight.
Citizens voiced their anger over the audacity of the officers, with some questioning why such practices continue despite years of promises to reform the police. “This is what we face every day on the roads,” one X user wrote. “They turn checkpoints into tollgates for their pockets.” Another user commented, “The e-CMR was supposed to make things easier, but it’s just another tool for extortion.” The public’s response highlighted a deep-seated mistrust in the police, a sentiment that has lingered since the #EndSARS protests of 2020, which called for an end to police brutality and systemic reform.
Swift Response from the Nigeria Police Force
In a bid to contain the fallout and restore public confidence, the Nigeria Police Force acted quickly. On May 26, 2025, Force Public Relations Officer, Assistant Commissioner of Police Olumuyiwa Adejobi, issued a statement condemning the officers’ actions. In a post on X, Adejobi described the behavior as “unacceptable” and “a gross violation of the principles of professionalism and integrity” that the force upholds. He confirmed that the officers involved had been identified and summoned to the Force Headquarters in Abuja for a thorough investigation and disciplinary proceedings.
“The Nigeria Police Force will not tolerate any form of unprofessionalism or corruption,” Adejobi stated. “We are committed to ensuring that those found guilty face the full weight of disciplinary measures, and we will keep the public informed on the outcome of this case.” The swift response was likely driven by the intense public scrutiny and the potential for the incident to further erode trust in the institution. The police also urged citizens to report similar incidents through official channels, including a dedicated complaint hotline and the force’s social media platforms.
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