The Nigeria Police Force has challenged social media personality, Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), to provide evidence for his allegation that some police officers at highway checkpoints leak travellers’ information to kidnappers and bandits to facilitate abductions for ransom.
The challenge was contained in a statement by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Ani Iniedu, on Thursday following comments made by Otse at the recent Nigerian Bar Association Conference in Port Harcourt.
The Force described the allegation as unsubstantiated and damaging, stressing that police personnel deployed at checkpoints are mandated to prevent crime, detect criminal activity and protect travellers, rather than facilitate kidnappings.
It noted that officers operating along major highways routinely confront criminal elements and have themselves been ambushed, attacked and killed, while police stations, formations and operational assets have also come under attacks by terrorists, kidnappers and other violent criminals.
The police spokesperson said the Force comprises hundreds of thousands of officers who work under difficult and dangerous conditions, warning against blanket accusations that portray the institution as complicit in the crimes it is mandated to prevent.
Iniedu, however, said the Force would not shield any officer found to have compromised his or her duty, stressing that such personnel would face internal disciplinary measures and prosecution where appropriate.
He urged Otse to submit any evidence supporting his allegations, including information showing that officers identify wealthy travellers and transmit their details to kidnappers.
“Any such information will be treated with urgency and investigated thoroughly,” the statement said.
The Force also urged members of the public to channel credible allegations of police misconduct through appropriate authorities, rather than relying solely on public accusations, stressing that legitimate criticism strengthens accountability while unverified claims could undermine public trust and national security.
