Six Police Officers Face Disciplinary Action Over Viral Extortion Video Along Benin Bypass
Abuja, May 28, 2025 – The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has commenced disciplinary proceedings against six officers, including their supervising officer, a Chief Superintendent of Police, following their involvement in a viral video showing extortion of motorists along the Benin Bypass in Edo State. The officers were caught demanding motorists pay either ₦5,000 or five litres of fuel for failing to produce an Electronic Central Motor Registry (ECMR) certificate, despite the suspension of ECMR enforcement in July 2024.
Details of the Incident and Response
The video, which surfaced on social media, sparked widespread public outrage and renewed concerns about police misconduct and extortion. In the footage, one officer is seen insisting on payment from travellers, while another demands fuel as an alternative. The ECMR enforcement had been suspended by Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun following nationwide criticism of the policy as a tool for extortion.
Following the viral exposure, the six officers were identified and summoned to the Force Headquarters in Abuja. Upon arrival, they were brought before IGP Kayode Egbetokun, who condemned their actions as “shameful, distasteful, and utterly unacceptable.” The IGP ordered immediate commencement of internal disciplinary procedures consistent with the Force’s zero-tolerance policy on extortion and unprofessional conduct.
Disciplinary Measures Underway
The officers have been formally queried, and orderly room trials have begun for the Inspectors directly implicated in the extortion. The NPF reiterated its commitment to upholding professionalism, integrity, and accountability, assuring the public that such misconduct will not be tolerated under any guise. Appropriate sanctions will be applied following established disciplinary procedures.
The Force also called on citizens to report unethical behavior by officers, promising that all complaints will be treated with seriousness and transparency.
Official Statements
Force Public Relations Officer Olumuyiwa Adejobi confirmed the officers’ identification and summoning, stating,
“We will not tolerate any act of indiscipline or unprofessionalism. We will update the public on our decisions as soon as possible.”
Delta State Police Command spokesperson SP Edafe Bright expressed dismay over the incident on social media, promising that officers who bring shame to the force will be dismissed.
