Kwara CP Orders Arrest of Officers Over Alleged N200,000 Extortion from Polytechnic Student

The Commissioner of Police in Kwara State, CP Adekimi Ojo, has ordered the immediate arrest of police officers accused of extorting N200,000 from a student of the Federal Polytechnic, Offa, following growing public outrage over the incident.

The student, identified as Taiwo Kayode Taye, was reportedly intercepted by operatives of the Anti-Cultism Unit while traveling through Erin-Ile, a town in the state, en route to Osogbo, Osun State, in a commercial vehicle.

According to reports, the officers demanded access to Taiwo’s phone, which he refused to unlock.

Following his resistance, Taiwo was initially taken to the Ijagbo Police Division and later transferred to the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) in Ilorin. It was at the CID office that the officers allegedly forced the student to unlock his phone and coerced him into transferring the sum of N200,000 to an account reportedly bearing the name Lucy Akor.

Sources within the police command confirmed that the money was extorted under duress after prolonged intimidation.

In a telephone conversation with journalists on Tuesday, CP Ojo confirmed the incident and expressed deep displeasure over the conduct of the officers involved.

He described the extortion as “highly unprofessional and disappointing,” emphasizing that such behavior would not be condoned under his leadership.

“I am thoroughly embarrassed and disappointed by this report. The officers involved have been identified, and I have ordered their immediate arrest. A thorough and discreet investigation is underway, and I can assure the public that justice will be served,” the commissioner stated.

He further reiterated the command’s commitment to upholding the rights of citizens and restoring public trust in the Nigeria Police Force.

CP Ojo also encouraged victims of police misconduct in the state to come forward with their complaints, assuring them of protection and prompt response.

Human rights groups and student bodies have since condemned the alleged extortion, calling for a swift investigation and prosecution of those responsible. They also urged the police authorities to ensure that the victim is refunded and properly compensated.

The incident adds to a string of misconduct allegations leveled against some operatives of the Nigeria Police Force, highlighting the persistent concerns over abuse of power and the need for systemic reform within the security sector.