EXPLAINER: What to know about police bail, how to report extortion

The Nigeria Police Force confirms that every suspect released on bail signs a form confirming no money exchanged hands. However, many suspects sign without reading the document, despite the absence of an official bail fee. The Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Anietie Iniedu, explained this in an interview, stating that the law prohibits officers from collecting money for bail.

Despite this, extortion still occurs due to a lack of public awareness of the law. Before release, suspects receive a document that explicitly states they did not pay any money for their bail. Many people, however, sign without reading it, simply wanting to leave. If an officer asks for money, Iniedu advises contacting the force directly using a phone.

The Inspector-General of Police has issued directives limiting mobile money agents' proximity to police stations, a move aimed at curbing extortion. These directives have had some success, though complaints against police extortion have reportedly decreased in the past three months. The Inspector-General of Police regularly engages with the public to rebuild trust in the force.