The Nigeria Police Force has rejected allegations by Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), that some officers stationed at checkpoints along major highways share information about travelers with kidnappers and bandits.
Tripod Times reports that the police described the allegations as unfounded and damaging to the reputation of an institution responsible for protecting millions of Nigerians.
Otse made the allegations at the recent Nigerian Bar Association Conference in Port Harcourt, Rivers State. He claimed that some police officers allegedly identify wealthy travelers at checkpoints and provide criminals with details about their movements, which could then be used to facilitate kidnappings for ransom.
Reacting to the claims, CSP Ani Iniedu, the Force Public Relations Officer, said serious allegations of such nature must be backed by credible evidence.
He explained that officers deployed to checkpoints and other locations nationwide are responsible for preventing crime, detecting illegal activities, and protecting citizens, rather than assisting kidnappers.
Iniedu further noted that police officers regularly confront the same criminals they are accused of assisting, adding that several officers have been ambushed, attacked, and killed while carrying out their duties.
According to him, terrorists, kidnappers, and other violent criminals have also attacked police stations, operational units, and police resources.
The Force spokesperson said making sweeping allegations against the entire police force was unfair to the majority of officers who continue to work under difficult, poorly funded, and dangerous conditions.
He, however, stressed that any officer found to have neglected their responsibilities would face disciplinary action and prosecution in accordance with the law.
“An entire institution should not be condemned on the strength of a public statement made without evidence,” he said.
The police therefore challenged Otse to provide evidence supporting his allegations, particularly any information showing that checkpoint officers identify wealthy travelers and pass their details to kidnappers to facilitate their abduction.
Iniedu assured that any credible evidence presented would be promptly received and thoroughly investigated.
He also urged members of the public to report cases of police misconduct through the appropriate channels to enable the Force to take necessary action.
The Force Public Relations Officer reaffirmed the police commitment to transparency and accountability, saying credible allegations of misconduct would be investigated regardless of how they were reported.
However, he called on Nigerians to exercise responsibility when making or circulating claims concerning national security institutions, noting that while legitimate criticism can strengthen accountability, unsubstantiated allegations could undermine public trust and national security.
2026-08-27
