IS THIS FAIR?? Heartless Police Officers Kidnapped Abuja Businessman, Extorted Over N29million
In a recent development, the Nigeria Police Force has formally acknowledged the arrest of several officers implicated in the abduction and extortion of a businessman in Abuja, the nation’s capital, in January. The revelation was made public on Tuesday morning by Force Spokesperson, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, via X (formerly Twitter), underscoring the force’s commitment to ensuring justice prevails in this egregious case.
Adejobi stated, We are making significant strides in addressing this matter, and rest assured, justice will be served, as several suspects have been apprehended.
The incident, captured in a video disseminated by SaharaReporters in January, alleges that the businessman was forcibly abducted from one of his project sites in Abuja by armed police officers. Subsequently, he was unlawfully detained until he capitulated and transferred a sum of N29, 900, 000 from his bank account to the perpetrators.
The victim was coerced into contacting his acquaintances and family members to solicit additional funds before his release was entertained. Notably, no formal complaint or statement was lodged against the businessman by the
officers involved, casting a shadow of doubt over their motives and actions.
The narrator in the video expressed dismay, remarking,” I reported on the Incident of N29, 900, 000 police extortion in Abuja, Nigeria. It s difficult to categorize this-whether it’s police robbery, kidnapping, or extortion. But this transcends mere extortion; it’s a criminal act, akin to kidnapping, with the funds extracted labeled as ransom.”
Detailing the ordeal, the businessman recounted being intercepted by officers donning black attire and armed with AK- 47 rifles while en route to his construction site in Abuja. Transported to undisclosed locations within the city, he endured a harrowing experience, fearing for his safety and uncertain of his captors intentions.
The victim was compelled to divulge access to his financial resources, resulting in the transfer of his entire account balance to designated bank accounts provided by the officers. Furthermore, he was coerced into reaching out to acquaintances for additional monetary contributions under duress.
The incident sheds light on the alarming trend of police misconduct and abuse of
power within Abuja, compounding
existing concerns over security and law
enforcement practices. The absence of due process and procedural fairness in handling the victim’s case underscores
systemic flaws within the law
enforcement apparatus. In light of these revelations, calls for thorough investigations and stringent disciplinary measures against the erring officers have intensified. The incidyen serves as a stark reminder of the imperative to uphold the rule of la TAKE safeguard the rights of citizens against unlawful actions perpetrated by those entrusted with maintaining public order and safety.
Efforts to combat police corruption and
misconduct must be redoubled, with
transparent accountability mechanisms. instituted to restore public trust and confidence in law enforcement agencies. The Nigeria Police Force must demonstrate unwavering commitment to upholding the highest ethical standards
and ensuring justice prevails in cases of
wrongdoing perpetrated by its personnel.
As the investigation progresses, stakeholders and civil society
organizations continue to advocate for
comprehensive reforms aimed at
fostering a culture of accountability,
integrity, and respect for human rights
within the law enforcement sector. Only
through concerted efforts and sustained vigilance can the scourge of police brutality and impunity be effectively addressed, thereby fostering a society grounded in justice, fairness, and equality for all
