The Nigeria Police Force has invited social media activist Martins Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), to provide evidence backing his allegation that some police officers stationed at checkpoints collude with kidnappers and bandits.
The Force Public Relations Officer, Ani Iniedu, disclosed this in a statement on Thursday, following comments made by VDM during the recent Nigerian Bar Association conference in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
VeryDarkMan had alleged that some police officers operating checkpoints along major highways identify wealthy travellers and pass information about their identities and movements to kidnappers, allegedly helping criminals target them for ransom.
Reacting to the claim, the police described the allegation as serious, unsubstantiated and damaging to the reputation of the Force.
The police therefore asked VDM to immediately produce whatever evidence he relied upon in making the allegations, including any proof that officers identify wealthy individuals at checkpoints and subsequently share their information with kidnappers.
The Force said any credible evidence submitted by the activist would be treated urgently and thoroughly investigated.
The police also urged members of the public who have evidence of misconduct by officers to report such matters through the appropriate authorities rather than relying solely on public allegations.
The Force maintained that officers deployed to checkpoints across the country are tasked with preventing crime, detecting criminal activities and protecting citizens.
It further noted that police personnel routinely confront kidnappers, bandits and other criminal elements and have suffered attacks and fatalities while carrying out their duties.
However, the police acknowledged that officers found to have compromised their responsibilities would face internal disciplinary action and prosecution in accordance with the law.
The Force cautioned against making blanket accusations capable of demoralising its personnel and undermining public confidence in the police.
It urged Nigerians to distinguish between legitimate criticism, which can promote accountability, and unverified allegations that could damage public trust and national security.
