A disturbing case of alleged police extortion has surfaced in Nigeria, with a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Prof. Yemi Oke, demanding action from the Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun. The petition, filed on behalf of Mr. Okubajo Kehinde, claims that his son, Segun Okubajo, a diasporan Nigerian, was abducted by four police officers in Lagos and taken to Abuja, where he was held incommunicado and forced to pay an enormous sum of N151.5 million under threats and duress.
According to the petition, Segun Okubajo, who had no prior criminal complaints against him, was violently arrested on October 9, 2024, by the police officers, who invaded his apartment with heavy weapons, switched off his CCTV cameras, and seized his phones. The officers then took him to Abuja, where they initially demanded N1 billion but eventually settled for N151.5 million. The family was forced to raise the sum through loans and contributions from friends and cooperative societies to save Segun’s life.
The petition alleges that two known informants, in collusion with the police officers, framed up an imaginary allegation against Segun Okubajo, with the sole aim of extorting money from him. After the extortion, Segun reportedly fled back abroad, where he has faced continued threats to his life and that of his family. The police officers have resorted to sending threat messages, warning Segun and his family against pursuing justice.
Despite filing earlier petitions, including one directly to the IGP, the family claims that the threats have persisted, prompting the current petition. The senior lawyer is demanding a full investigation, immediate refund of the extorted sum, and disciplinary action against the officers involved. The lawyers have warned that if the IGP’s office fails to act within 14 days, the case will be escalated.
The petition highlights the demands of the family, including a thorough investigation, immediate refund of the extorted sum, and disciplinary action against the officers. The family is seeking justice and an end to the threats and harassment they have faced. The case has raised concerns about police extortion and the need for accountability within the Nigerian Police Force. The Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, is expected to take immediate action to address the allegations and ensure that justice is served.
