The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has ordered an inquiry into allegations that commanders extorted N25,000 from individual officers returning from a counter-insurgency deployment.
The investigation follows claims that personnel were required to pay the sum as a mandatory “transit fee” upon their return to base. The Command has responded to these allegations by stating that no such official fee exists within the protocols of the Nigeria Police Force.
The probe is intended to determine if the collection of these funds was an organised attempt at extortion by high-ranking officers. The incident has raised concerns regarding the financial exploitation of frontline operatives who had just completed high-risk assignments.
Counter-insurgency deployments often involve officers working in high-pressure environments for extended periods, frequently away from their primary stations and families. These roles are critical to maintaining regional stability, and the welfare of the personnel involved is a key component of operational success.
The imposition of unofficial financial levies on personnel returning from such duties can significantly impact morale and the overall effectiveness of security operations. When officers feel targeted by their own leadership, the resulting erosion of trust can compromise the chain of command and internal cohesion.
Investigation into alleged misconduct
The Command’s decision to probe the matter comes as part of an effort to maintain discipline and address reports of misconduct within the ranks. Commissioner of Police, Baba Azare, is expected to oversee the inquiry to ensure that the findings are thoroughly vetted and that accountability is upheld.
The issue was brought to light following reports on the alleged extortion of operatives by commanders in Akwa Ibom. The officers involved alleged that the N25,000 charge was presented as a non-negotiable requirement for their movement back to their primary stations.
Such allegations of extortion represent a serious breach of the police code of conduct. If proven, the implicated commanders could face severe disciplinary actions under the Police Act, which includes potential dismissal or criminal prosecution for acts of corruption and abuse of office.
This incident brings attention to the ongoing challenge of ensuring accountability within the police hierarchy. The Nigeria Police Force has been under significant public pressure to reform its internal culture and eliminate systemic corruption. Incidents where subordinates are allegedly victimised by superiors contradict the stated goals of police leadership to foster a more professional and transparent service.
Furthermore, the financial integrity of the command is paramount. Unauthorized collections, whether framed as “transit fees” or “administrative charges,” undermine the economic stability of officers who are often navigating the high costs of living in Nigeria.
The Akwa Ibom Police Command has not yet provided a specific timeline for the conclusion of the inquiry, but the outcome is expected to determine whether disciplinary actions or criminal prosecutions will be initiated against the implicated commanders.
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