The Nigeria Police Force has invited social media critic Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan, to provide evidence supporting allegations he made against police officers during the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) conference in Port Harcourt.
VeryDarkMan made the claims on Tuesday while serving as a panelist at the 66th Annual General Conference of the NBA. He alleged that some police officers operating checkpoints along major highways provide kidnappers and bandits with information about travellers, including their identities and movements.
According to the activist, such alleged conduct could be contributing to kidnappings for ransom across the country.
However, the Nigeria Police Force has rejected the allegations.
In a statement issued on Thursday by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Ani Iniedu, the police said officers deployed to checkpoints nationwide were assigned to prevent crime, detect criminal activities and protect members of the public.
The Force subsequently invited VeryDarkMan to present evidence supporting his claims.
The police specifically requested any information showing that officers identify wealthy travellers at checkpoints and subsequently pass their details to kidnappers to facilitate abductions.
The Force said any credible evidence provided would be treated seriously and investigated.
The police also encouraged members of the public who have evidence of misconduct by officers to report through appropriate channels so that investigations and disciplinary action can be taken where necessary.
The development has sparked renewed discussion about police accountability, freedom of expression and the need for credible evidence when serious allegations are made against security personnel.
VeryDarkMan’s response to the police invitation and whether he will provide evidence to support his allegations remain key developments to watch.
