April 15, 2026 | SUNTV Global Channel
A resident of Lokoja, Kogi State, has alleged that officers attached to the “C” Division Police Headquarters subjected him to severe assault, intimidation, and extortion after he was stopped during a routine stop-and-search operation.
The victim, in a detailed account of the incident which occurred on March 31, 2026, said he was profiled as a suspected internet fraudster (“Yahoo boy”) shortly after being stopped by officers while riding a motorcycle near Gadumo area of Lokoja.
According to him, the encounter quickly escalated when officers accused him of looking suspicious and demanded that he “settle” them before he could be allowed to pass. He said attempts to explain his identity and purpose of travel were dismissed.
He further alleged that his phone was confiscated, his motorcycle was taken from him, and he was transported to the police station where the situation worsened.
At the station, the complainant claimed he was subjected to repeated physical assault after he refused to make statements without contacting family members or legal representatives. He alleged that officers beat him, threatened him, and forced him to write a statement under duress.
He also alleged that he was compelled to sign an undertaking not to report the incident and that his personal belongings were seized during the process. According to him, his release was later secured after the intervention of a former students’ union leader who pleaded on his behalf.
The complainant further claimed he was made to pay ₦3,000 before his belongings were returned to him after his release.
As of the time of filing this report, there has been no official response from the Kogi State Police Command regarding the allegations.
Civil society observers have called for a thorough investigation into the incident, urging authorities to ensure accountability and prevent abuse of power by law enforcement officers.
The matter has continued to generate public concern over police conduct, profiling, and the treatment of citizens during routine operations.
