A Kaduna-based businessman, Aliyu Abba, has accused two police officers attached to the Nigeria Police Force Intelligence Department of extorting ₦750,000 and demanding an additional ₦500,000 over a civil dispute with an Indian business partner, Sajith Madhu. The dispute revolves around a debt of ₦152 million owed to Nostromo Trading Nigeria Ltd, with Abba claiming he had met all contractual obligations and offered flexible options to resolve the issue.
*The Alleged Extortion*
Abba alleges that despite obtaining a restraining order from the Kano State High Court, the police officers continued to summon him to Abuja, disrupting his business trips to Lagos and Port Harcourt. The officers allegedly demanded ₦1.25 million, with Abba paying ₦750,000 before refusing to pay the remaining ₦500,000.
*Police Response*
The police have yet to respond to the allegations, with attempts to reach the Force Public Relations Officer, Muyiwa Adejobi, being unsuccessful.
*Similar Cases*
This incident is not isolated, as there have been other reported cases of police extortion in Nigeria. For instance, a businessman in Enugu was extorted of ₦62 million by police officers who accused him of being a member of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) ¹.
*Conclusion*
The allegations against the police officers highlight the need for accountability and transparency within the Nigeria Police Force. Abba's case serves as a reminder of the importance of ensuring that law enforcement agencies operate within the bounds of the law and respect the rights of citizens ².
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