Commissioner of Police in Kwara State has warned officers against extorting residents and searching mobile phones without legal authority, stressing that the force will not tolerate misconduct that damages public trust.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

Commissioner of Police Victor Olaiya gave the warning this week while addressing senior officers at the command headquarters in Ilorin. He reminded police personnel that their role is to protect citizens, not harass them.

Olaiya said he has received reports of officers stopping young people on the road, demanding to check their phones, and asking for money. He described such actions as unprofessional, unlawful, and harmful to the image of the police.

“No officer is permitted to stop and search someone’s phone without a court order or credible evidence,” Olaiya said. “Any officer caught engaging in extortion or unlawful checks will face strict disciplinary action.”

The commissioner stressed that officers must respect the rights of residents at all times. He warned that misconduct not only violates police ethics but also creates fear in the public and undermines community cooperation.

Olaiya instructed divisional police officers and area commanders to monitor their subordinates closely and report any cases of abuse. He said the command will investigate complaints and punish those found guilty of misconduct.

Public concern

In recent years, many Nigerians have complained about police officers stopping them on the streets, asking for bribes, and demanding to search personal phones. Rights groups say these practices have become common, especially among younger officers, despite repeated warnings from police leadership.

The practice has caused tensions between police and residents, particularly young men, who often feel they are unfairly targeted. In 2020, protests against police brutality under the #EndSARS movement erupted nationwide, fueled in part by complaints of harassment, extortion, and unlawful searches.

Since then, the Nigeria Police Force has made public pledges to reform its operations and rebuild trust with communities. Senior officers have issued several directives banning unlawful searches and extortion, but reports of abuse continue to surface in some states.

Strong message to officers

Olaiya said the Kwara State command is determined to end such practices. He reminded officers that the Nigerian Constitution guarantees the right to privacy and freedom from unlawful searches. He also urged them to follow proper procedures when conducting investigations.

“Any search must be backed by a warrant or lawful authority,” he said. “Officers must act with professionalism, fairness, and respect for human dignity.”

He called on citizens to report any cases of extortion or phone harassment to the police command through official hotlines and complaint channels.

“We encourage the public to come forward with information. This is the only way we can identify and punish bad elements within the force,” Olaiya said.

Building trust

Community leaders in Ilorin welcomed the commissioner’s statement, saying it could help rebuild trust between police and residents. Some, however, expressed doubt about enforcement, noting that similar warnings have been issued in the past with little visible change.

Rights advocates say firm disciplinary action is key. “What Nigerians want to see is not just words but action,” said Ibrahim Adeyemi, a local activist. “When officers who abuse power are punished, it will send a strong message to others.”

The Kwara command has promised regular patrol monitoring and undercover checks to identify officers violating the rules. Olaiya said his administration is committed to accountability and will not shield any officer from punishment.

“The police are here to serve, not to exploit,” he said. “We will continue to work with the people to create a safe and just society.”

Looking ahead

The warning comes as part of broader efforts by the Nigeria Police Force to improve discipline among officers and restore confidence after years of criticism.

Observers say sustained action, transparency, and public reporting will determine whether such measures succeed. For many residents, the key test will be whether harassment on the streets actually decreases in the weeks ahead.