Police initiate investigation over alleged N2.3m extortion

In response to viral allegations of extortion, Assistant Inspector General (AIG) of Police Benneth Igweh has ordered a comprehensive investigation into claims involving officers from the Zone 7 Police Command in Abuja.

The probe comes after social media user Harrison Gwamnishu, known as #HarrisonBbi18 on X, reported on Friday that officers had extorted N2.3 million from a man named Nwosu Ndubuisi, even forcing him to sell his laptop at Banex Plaza, Abuja, to cover the cost of bail.

According to Gwamnishu’s post, Ndubuisi was detained by officers who allegedly demanded a substantial sum for his release. The claim has drawn significant public attention and renewed discussions on police misconduct and accountability.

Confirming the investigation on Monday, Zone 7’s Public Relations Officer, Abdulkadir, assured that the inquiry would be rigorous and transparent, with updates provided to the public throughout the process.

“The attention of Zone 7 Police Command Headquarters, Abuja, has been drawn to news circulating on social media, particularly on X, by Harrison Gwamnishu, with the handle #HarrisonBbi18, claiming that officers from Zone 7 Headquarters allegedly extorted the sum of Two Million Three Hundred Thousand Naira (N2,300,000) from Mr. Nwosu Ndubuisi.

He further alleged that the officers took him to Banex Plaza in Abuja to sell his laptop to secure his bail,” Abdulkadir’s statement read.

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AIG Benneth Igweh reaffirmed his commitment to maintaining integrity within the force, emphasizing that Zone 7’s leadership upholds a strict “zero tolerance for corruption.”

He noted that any proven misconduct would be met with appropriate consequences to reinforce accountability. “The Zone 7 Headquarters, Abuja, under the leadership of AIG Benneth C. Igweh, psc, mni, will never tolerate any act of extortion, corruption, indiscipline, or human rights abuse,” Abdulkadir added.

The incident has sparked public outrage, with many Nigerians urging a swift investigation and calling for systemic reforms to prevent future abuses. Observers argue that ensuring justice in such cases is critical to rebuilding trust between the public and law enforcement.

The investigation’s findings will be closely monitored, as they carry significant implications for police accountability efforts nationwide.