In a development that has sparked fresh concerns about police conduct, operatives of the Nigeria Police Force Intelligence Response Team (IRT) in Abuja have released two farmers from Ondo State following allegations of illegal detention and extortion.
SUNTV Global Channel gathered that the victims, identified as Felix Fasehun and Oyewole Oladipupo, were initially arrested in Ondo town over a dispute described by sources as strictly civil and already before a state High Court.
According to reports earlier published by SaharaReporters, IRT operatives stormed Okeigbo community and transported the farmers to Abuja in a security vehicle, a journey said to have lasted over 12 hours.
Sources within the police disclosed that while being moved to the Federal Capital Territory, the farmers alleged officers forced withdrawals totaling ₦300,000 from their bank accounts in two separate transactions.
The victims reportedly claimed they were threatened and warned not to speak about the withdrawals, with officers allegedly telling them to “be guided” and reminding them that their homes were known.
However, when the case reached the head of the IRT, Muhammad Sanusi Ahmed, the accused officers denied any wrongdoing.
Senior police sources told SUNTV Global Channel that the IRT commander expressed strong displeasure over the allegations and insisted that suspects must never pay money to secure their freedom.
After reviewing the case file and listening to the detained farmers, he ordered their immediate release and warned that any officer found guilty of extortion, torture, or abuse of office would face strict disciplinary action.
Although administrative delays linked to election-related duties slowed their exit from Abuja, the release directive remained in force.
The two farmers reportedly returned to their Ondo community in the early hours of Sunday, where they were welcomed by jubilant residents. Witnesses said villagers slaughtered goats in celebration, reflecting widespread relief over their safe return.
The incident has triggered internal discussions within the police over operational discipline, jurisdictional limits, and the growing concern about officers intervening in civil disputes already before courts.
Human rights advocates and legal practitioners have called for an independent probe into the officers’ conduct, urging authorities to enforce existing directives aimed at preventing the criminalisation of civil matters.
Police authorities are said to be reviewing the circumstances surrounding the arrest, detention, and alleged financial transactions to determine whether disciplinary measures will be taken.
— SUNTV Global Channel
