Police Invite VeryDarkMan Over Checkpoint-Kidnapping Allegations

The Nigeria Police Force has invited social media activist Martins Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan, to provide evidence backing his allegation that some police officers at checkpoints collude with kidnappers and bandits.

The Force, in a statement on Thursday by its Force Public Relations Officer, Ani Iniedu, said it had taken note of comments made by Otse at the recent Nigerian Bar Association conference in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

VeryDarkMan had alleged that police officers manning checkpoints along major highways identify wealthy travellers and relay information about their identities and movements to kidnappers, facilitating their abduction for ransom.

Reacting, the police described the allegation as serious, unsubstantiated and unfairly damaging to the institution.

The Force said allegations of such gravity require credible evidence and consequently invited Otse to provide any evidence supporting his claims.

It said any evidence presented by the activist would be treated with urgency and thoroughly investigated.

The police also urged members of the public with credible evidence of police misconduct to approach the appropriate authorities rather than relying solely on public allegations.

The Force maintained that officers deployed to checkpoints nationwide are tasked with preventing crime, detecting criminal activities and protecting citizens, rather than facilitating kidnapping.

It noted that police personnel routinely confront criminal elements and have suffered attacks and casualties in the course of their duties.

The police, however, said officers found to have compromised their duties would face internal disciplinary measures and prosecution in accordance with the law.

The Force cautioned against blanket accusations that could demoralise its personnel and undermine public trust, while urging the public to distinguish between legitimate criticism and unsubstantiated claims.