Group Faults Report On Police SIU Officers

The African Youth Development Alliance has faulted a media report alleging that officers of the Nigeria Police Force Special Investigation Unit (SIU) extorted N5 million from an Abuja resident, describing the claims as inaccurate and misleading.

In a statement issued by its spokesperson, Busola Tejumola, the group said the publication titled “Nigerian Police SIU Officers accused of Extorting N5 Million From Abuja Resident for Bail” was riddled with unverified allegations capable of damaging the reputation of officers involved.

The alliance said its independent findings showed that the officer named in the report, Abiodun Adekunle Fasasi, did not at any time extort N5 million or any other amount from an Abuja businessman or any individual in connection with bail.

According to the group, the allegations lack credible evidence and should not be taken as established facts.

It also questioned the receipts referenced in the report, noting that they neither bear Fasasi’s name nor establish any connection between him and individuals allegedly acting on his behalf.

“This raises serious questions about the credibility of the narrative being circulated,” the group stated.

The organisation further dismissed claims that the officer threatened detainees with multiple charges, including cybercrime, drug peddling, tax evasion and money laundering, describing such allegations as unsubstantiated.

The group also defended the Officer-in-Charge of the SIU, Moses Jolugbo, describing him as a professional officer known for diligence and integrity.

It challenged the complainant to provide verifiable evidence of the alleged demand of N10 million for bail and the reported negotiation that reduced the amount to N5 million.

The alliance urged media organisations to adhere to the principles of responsible journalism by verifying facts before publication and avoiding sensational reports capable of undermining public confidence in key institutions.

It reaffirmed its commitment to promoting accountability, fairness and truth in public discourse.