The Nigeria Police Force has confirmed the arrest and detention of a serving officer accused of extorting a motorist in the Idimu area of Lagos, following a viral video that sparked widespread public outrage.
In the footage circulating online, the motorist alleged that he was stopped by the officer despite having complete and valid vehicle documentation. The situation reportedly escalated into a dispute over the colour description of the vehicle, with the officer insisting it was “grey” rather than “ash” as indicated in the official registration papers.
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According to the account, the disagreement was used as a basis to pressure the driver into making an unlawful payment. The officer allegedly demanded N30,000, a figure said to have later been reduced to N10,000 during the encounter.
The officer, identified in reports as “Samson E.”, has since been taken into custody. Police authorities confirmed that he has been formally queried and that internal disciplinary procedures have commenced.
In a statement addressing the incident, the police reiterated their commitment to professionalism and accountability within the force, noting that investigations are ongoing and appropriate sanctions will be applied if the allegations are substantiated.
The case has reignited public concerns over extortion and misconduct by law enforcement officers, particularly in high-traffic urban areas such as Idimu, with calls for stricter oversight and reforms gaining renewed attention.