A growing number of Lagos residents have expressed deep frustration over the unprofessional conduct of some police officers, accusing them of harassment, extortion, and human rights violations — despite ongoing reformation efforts by the Nigeria Police Force and the National Orientation Agency (NOA).
In a series of interviews, citizens described the behaviour of some officers as rude, intimidating, and unaccountable, warning that such acts threaten public trust and undermine the very principles of community policing.
Public Outcry Over Police Misconduct
Residents accused some officers of engaging in extortion, brutality, and profiling, alleging that these practices had become systemic in several parts of Lagos.
A victim narrated how he was stopped in the Isheri area, dragged into a stationary police vehicle, and accused of being an internet fraudster because of his hairstyle.
“They cocked their guns and made me show my account balance. They demanded ₦100,000 and threatened to shoot me. Out of fear, I paid ₦30,000,” he said.
Another resident from Ayobo alleged that a robbery suspect handed over to the police was released shortly after, reportedly due to payment from accomplices.
“We caught a burglar who stole a laptop. Police collected ₦3,000 to take our statement. Days later, the suspect was back — residents are losing faith in the system,” he lamented.
He warned that such corruption fuels jungle justice as citizens lose confidence in law enforcement.
A teacher also recounted how his brother was detained after a false accusation of theft, only to be released after a senior officer intervened.
“The complainant later found his phone, yet the police still insisted on pressing charges,” he said.
Calls for Accountability and Police Reform
Banker Mr. Bayo Adekunle criticised the culture of bribery and impunity among security operatives, urging NOA to intensify collaboration with the police to reform attitudes.
“Bribery is destroying our social fabric. Our officers collect money openly on highways. How can Nigeria progress if wrongdoing is rewarded?” he asked.
He stressed that sustained reform is necessary to restore integrity and professionalism in the force.
Acknowledging Progress and Positive Conduct
While many residents criticised misconduct, others noted gradual improvements in policing and crime intelligence.
Mr. Alaba Shofolahun, of the Lagos Neighbourhood Security Watch, praised the police for improved crime tracking and response times.
“The speed and efficiency in tracking criminals is commendable. We must balance criticism with recognition of progress,” he said.
Similarly, Ms. Kemi Fatokun, a student at Lagos State University, shared a positive experience when a police officer assisted her late at night without requesting a bribe.
“That gave me hope — not all officers are bad,” she said.
She expressed optimism that the ongoing collaboration between the police and NOA would improve officers’ conduct and rebuild public confidence.
Police Command Pledges Reform and Transparency
Responding to the public concerns, the Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, Mr. Olohundare Jimoh, reaffirmed the commitment of the force to community collaboration, transparency, and service improvement.
Speaking during a stakeholders’ forum marking Customer Service Week in Ikeja, Jimoh stated:
“Effective policing begins with understanding community priorities. We’re not just enforcing laws but engaging citizens as partners in peacebuilding.”
He reiterated that bail remains free, warning officers against extortion and promising strict disciplinary actions for defaulters.
“Report any officer who demands money for bail. Police services are free, and corruption will not be tolerated,” he emphasised.
Jimoh said the command’s new approach prioritises empathy, early intervention, and proactive engagement to strengthen police-community relations.
“We are entering a new phase — not waiting for citizens to come to us, but going to them. Lagosians should expect friendlier, more accountable policing,” he concluded.
Public Complaint Channels
Residents were encouraged to report misconduct through the Complaint Response Unit (CRU) via:
📞 09087482365 | 💬 WhatsApp: 09111111151
🐦 Twitter: @CruLagospolice | 📸 Instagram: @policeng_lagos | 📘 Facebook: lagosCRU
BRANDECONOMY ANALYSIS: Restoring Trust Through Accountability
The Lagos Police Command faces a crucial test — rebuilding credibility amid widespread mistrust. While reforms under the Renewed Hope Agenda and NOA campaigns are commendable, genuine progress depends on strict enforcement of ethics, digital monitoring of officer conduct, and community collaboration.
Nigeria’s internal security ecosystem can only thrive when citizens believe that law enforcement protects rather than preys on them. Sustainable reform will require consistent leadership, technology-driven oversight, and civic engagement across all levels of governance.
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