Police Reject Purported Collusion with Criminals, Invite Otse to Validate Allegation

The Nigeria Police Force has dismissed allegations that its personnel colluded with kidnappers and criminals to abduct road users for ransom, stating that such claims are unfounded and harmful to the institution dedicated to protecting Nigerians. The Force invited social media personality Martins Vincent Otse, known as “VeryDarkMan” (VDM), to present evidence supporting his accusations, including details of police personnel identifying wealthy individuals and transmitting their information to kidnappers for abductions.

The Force's Public Relations Officer emphasized that any such information would be investigated swiftly and thoroughly. CSP Anietie Iniedu clarified that allegations against the police must be backed by substantial evidence, noting that police officers regularly face threats from criminals. He stated that police personnel routinely confront criminals at checkpoints, often putting their lives at risk.

The Force assured the public that individual officers found guilty of misconduct would face internal discipline and legal consequences, but an entire institution should not be condemned based on unsubstantiated claims. RULAAC, an organization advocating for rule of law and accountability, called for an independent investigation into these allegations, agreeing that serious accusations should not be based on speculation or dismissed without proper investigation.