The Nigeria Police authorities in Kogi State have promised to investigate allegations of extortion, demands for payment before bail and other forms of misconduct by its personnel in the state.
Commissioner of Police Bello Kankarofi gave the assurance during a stakeholders’ engagement marking the 2026 Police Customer Service Week, where participants raised concerns about the treatment of members of the public at police stations.
Complaints of extortion, delays in obtaining police reports and demands for payment before bail were among the concerns raised by stakeholders at the engagement.
The event, organised by the Kogi State Police Command to mark Customer Service Week, provided an opportunity for members of the public to question police practices.
Commissioner of Police Bello Kankarofi, speaking on the theme, The Extra Mile, acknowledged the importance of public trust in policing.
He urged officers to treat citizens with respect and professionalism while encouraging residents to provide timely information to help prevent crime.
Stakeholders also sought clarification on the police policy that bail is free, amid allegations that suspects and their relatives are sometimes required to pay money before securing their release.
Responding, the Commissioner assured participants that allegations of misconduct would be investigated and officers found culpable would face appropriate disciplinary action.
He said the command would continue engaging civil society organisations and other stakeholders to address complaints and improve accountability.
For residents, however, the test of these assurances will be whether complaints are investigated and misconduct is punished.
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Editor: Ada Ononye
