By Daniel Otera
A viral video showing a group of police officers allegedly extorting motorists along the Benin Bypass has drawn swift condemnation from authorities.
In the footage shared on X.com by user @Teeniiola, a police officer is heard demanding either ₦5,000 or five litres of fuel from travellers unable to provide proof of Electronic Central Motor Registry (ECMR) registration a requirement that had been suspended since July 2024 by the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun.
The video, widely circulated on Monday, reignited concerns about police misconduct and extortion, prompting the Nigeria Police Force to take immediate action. Force Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, issued a statement on X, denouncing the act. He wrote:
“This action is utterly condemned. The officers have been identified and summoned to Force Headquarters for necessary action. We will not tolerate any act of indiscipline or unprofessionalism. We will update the public on our decisions as soon as possible. Thanks.”
The enforcement of ECMR registration has been a contentious issue among Nigerian motorists. The police introduced the ECMR database as a mechanism to monitor vehicle ownership, but its implementation sparked widespread criticism, with many citizens viewing it as an avenue for exploitation. Following persistent public outcry, Egbetokun suspended the policy in 2024, yet reports of officers still demanding ECMR documents continue to emerge.
In the viral video, a frustrated traveller is heard challenging the officer’s request, stating that ECMR enforcement was illegal.
The officer replies, “You can make a call now.” When the traveller insists, “What do you want us to do?” the officer demands five litres of fuel, saying, “We’ll go and buy it, that’s 5k.” Another officer is seen instructing a traveller to provide three litres of fuel.
The video has sparked outrage across social media, with many Nigerians expressing frustration over recurring reports of police misconduct. Spokesperson for the Delta State Police Command, SP Edafe Bright, also reacted on X, stating:
“My God. Thanks for recording this. Little by little, all the moles will be taken out of the system. All these Policemen bringing shame to us, one by one, they will be sent out of the organisation. Maybe when they become jobless, they will go into content creation. This is embarrassing and the force is on it.”
The Nigeria Police Force has assured the public that updates will be provided regarding the investigation.
