The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has challenged social media commentator Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), to substantiate allegations that police officers stationed at checkpoints across major highways collaborate with kidnappers and bandits.
The demand follows remarks made by Otse during the recent Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Conference in Port Harcourt, where he reportedly alleged that some officers provide information about travellers to criminal groups, enabling kidnappings and other attacks.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Ani Iniedu, described the claims as serious but unsubstantiated, stressing that allegations of such magnitude must be supported by credible evidence.
According to the police, officers deployed to checkpoints nationwide are tasked with preventing and detecting crime, protecting lives and property, and enhancing public safety, not aiding criminal activities.
The Force noted that its personnel frequently confront kidnappers, terrorists, and other violent criminals, often risking their lives in the process. It added that many officers have been injured or killed while carrying out security operations across the country.
“Allegations of this gravity demand a corresponding standard of evidence, and that standard has not yet been met,” the statement said.
The police also rejected what it described as blanket accusations against its personnel, arguing that such claims unfairly tarnish the image of hundreds of thousands of officers serving under challenging and sometimes dangerous conditions.
While defending the institution, the NPF maintained that any officer found to have compromised his or her duty would face disciplinary action and possible prosecution in line with the law.
The Force specifically called on Otse to present any evidence supporting his claims, particularly proof that officers at checkpoints identify affluent travellers and share their details with kidnappers to facilitate abductions.
It assured that any credible information submitted would be treated with urgency and subjected to a thorough investigation.
The police further encouraged members of the public to report cases of alleged misconduct by officers through established complaint and reporting channels, saying such reports would help ensure accountability within the Force.
Reaffirming its commitment to transparency and professionalism, the NPF said it remains open to investigating verified allegations of misconduct regardless of how they emerge.
However, the Force cautioned against the spread of unverified accusations, warning that such claims could erode public confidence in national security institutions and undermine ongoing efforts to combat crime.
The statement urged Nigerians to distinguish between constructive criticism aimed at improving accountability and allegations that lack evidence and could negatively impact public trust in law enforcement agencies.
The statement was signed by CSP Ani Iniedu, Force Public Relations Officer, Force Headquarters, Abuja, and dated August 27, 2026.
