Benin bypass extortion: Symptom of deeper police corruption issues, RULAAC

Stanley Ihedigbo

Recent extortion incident along the Benin bypass, where six police officers were sanctioned for extorting motorists, is a symptom of deeper corruption issues in Nigeria, according to the Rule of Law and Accountability Advocacy Centre (RULAAC).

According to a statement signed by the group’s Executive Director, Com. Okechukwu Nwanguma, the swift action taken by the police hierarchy is welcome,

RULAAC emphasized that police corruption is systemic and sustained by institutional culture.

He noted that the Force Public Relations Officer ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi recently issued an _’Update on extortion incident along Benin Bypass’. He was reacting to the _’circulation of a viral video showing acts of extortion by police officers along the Benin bypass’.

He announced that the Nigeria Police Force, in line with its zero-tolerance policy on extortion and unprofessional conduct, has taken immediate action_. He said _’The six erring officers, including their supervising officer, a Chief Superintendent of Police, were marched in to appear before the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, who condemned their actions as shameful, distasteful, and utterly unacceptable.

He further ordered the immediate commencement of disciplinary procedures against all six officers involved._

He added that the action _’ reiterates the Force’s commitment to upholding professionalism, integrity and accountability’,_ and concluded that ‘ _the public is assured that such misconduct will not be tolerated under any guise, and appropriate sanctions will be meted out in line with established disciplinary procedures’.

He further said that the prompt action taken by the police hierarchy against the erring officers is welcome.

” It underscores the importance of citizens’ vigilance and the importance of social media as a tool for exposing corruption in public spaces. This would likely have been typically denied for the video evidence.

“However, it must be pointed out that police corruption is systemic and sustained by institutional culture. Addressing systemic police corruption demands comprehensive reform.

“Police corruption is a pervasive issue that cannot be resolved merely by punishing a few officers unlucky to be caught engaging in unethical practices. Instead, it requires a deep, systemic approach to reform that targets the underlying institutional culture facilitating corrupt behavior,” he stressed.

The Human Rights Activist, explained that corruption within the police force is not isolated or episodic; it is deeply entrenched within the hierarchical system.

” Recruitments and promotions are often influenced more by connections than merit, perpetuating a culture where misconduct is overlooked or tolerated.

“Junior officers on the frontlines of corruption—such as those extorting bribes at checkpoints—are often following orders from their superiors, who benefit from the illicit returns. When these junior officers are caught, they serve as scapegoats while higher-ups evade accountability.

“Many police formations and units operate on limited budgets that do not adequately cover essential expenses such as vehicle maintenance, fuel, and training. Officers frequently resort to self-funding through corruption to meet operational needs, leading to a cycle of unethical behavior.

“A comprehensive budget review is essential to ensure that the police have the necessary resources to perform their duties without resorting to extortion,” he advised.

To combat corruption effectively, he emphasized that the welfare and working conditions of police officers must be enhanced.

“This includes fair salaries, benefits, and access to proper training and resources.
When officers feel supported and valued, they are less likely to engage in corrupt practices. Humanizing the police force can foster a sense of duty and integrity among officers.

“Transformative changes must begin at the top levels of the police hierarchy. Leadership should be held accountable for fostering an ethical culture and for the actions of their subordinates. Regular integrity training and workshops can be instituted to reinforce the importance of ethical behavior and the long-term benefits of a corruption-free police force.

“Strengthening independent oversight bodies charged with the investigation of police misconduct and corruption will promote transparency. Public accountability is vital for fostering trust between the police and the community. Engaging civil society organizations in monitoring police activities can provide additional layers of accountability and pressure for reform.

“A radical change in police culture and operations is essential to tackle systemic corruption effectively. By addressing the root causes—insufficient resources, inadequate welfare, and a lack of accountability—the police can begin to reclaim their integrity and trust within communities. Only through a comprehensive, systemic approach can we ensure that law enforcement is truly dedicated to serving and protecting the public without succumbing to corruption”, he stated.