Former Force Public Relations Officer of the Nigeria Police Force, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, has said that anyone who begs or pressures the police to pardon or release a criminal is also committing a criminal act.

Adejobi, who is now a Deputy Commissioner of Police, made the statement in a post shared on his official X (formerly Twitter) account, where he warned against attempts to interfere with police investigations or influence the handling of criminal suspects.

He stated that law enforcement agencies are guided by due process and that suspects must be allowed to face proper investigation and possible prosecution without external interference, emotional pressure, or lobbying from relatives or influential individuals.

The comment has generated widespread reactions online, with many Nigerians debating whether appealing for leniency or intervention on behalf of a suspect should be considered a criminal offence or part of citizens’ right to seek justice through lawful channels.

While some users supported his position as a reinforcement of the rule of law, others argued that his statement may be too broad, noting that families and legal representatives often engage authorities in efforts to ensure fair treatment of suspects.

Adejobi has been known for making public statements on policing and national security issues, often urging citizens to respect legal procedures and avoid actions that could obstruct justice.

The latest remark continues to fuel discussion on the boundaries between lawful advocacy and obstruction of justice within Nigeria’s criminal justice system.