The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has invited an activist, Martins Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), to provide evidence for his allegation that police officers at checkpoints share information about travellers with kidnappers and terrorists.
VeryDarkMan made this claim during a panel session at the ongoing 2026 Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Annual General Conference in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
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The conference started on 21 August and was expected to end today.
He alleged that police officers manning checkpoints along major highways identify wealthy travellers and relay information about their identities and movements to criminal gangs, thereby facilitating their abduction for ransom.
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The activist also made other comments, including how cattle are being used for money laundering.
Police reject allegations
The NPF, in a statement signed by its spokesperson, Ani Iniedu, rejected the allegations, describing them as “unsubstantiated.”
The police added that claims of such gravity require corresponding evidence.
According to the police, officers deployed to checkpoints and other locations nationwide are tasked with preventing crime, detecting criminal activity and protecting citizens, not facilitating kidnappings.
The police noted that personnel routinely confront the same criminal elements accused of receiving information from officers, adding that several policemen have been ambushed, attacked and killed by terrorists, kidnappers and other violent criminals.
Further describing VeryDarkMan’s allegations as a “blanket” one, the police said hundreds of officers work under difficult, underfunded and dangerous conditions.
However, the force said allegations against individual officers who may have compromised their duties would be investigated and, where established, the officers would face internal disciplinary measures and prosecution.
“But an entire institution should not be condemned on the strength of a public statement made without evidence,” the police stated.
Police demand evidence
The police consequently invited the activist to submit the evidence supporting his allegations, particularly any proof that checkpoint officers identify wealthy travellers and transmit their information to kidnappers to facilitate their abduction.
The force said any credible evidence submitted would be treated urgently and investigated thoroughly.
Similarly, the police urged members of the public who have evidence of misconduct by officers to use appropriate reporting channels so that allegations can be investigated and necessary action taken.
While reaffirming its commitment to transparency and accountability, the police cautioned against making or circulating unverified allegations concerning national security institutions.
According to the police, legitimate criticism could strengthen accountability, but unsubstantiated claims could undermine public trust and potentially endanger national security.
‘I stand by my word’ – VDM
Mr Otse, in a video response posted on Facebook on Thursday, said he stands by his allegations and is prepared to appear before the police.
He said he would not submit his evidence directly to the police but would present it in court if he was charged.
READ ALSO: Insecurity: ‘Make it easy for citizens to get guns’ – VDM says at NBA conference
“My lawyers are on the ground. I can see a lot of Nigerians celebrating that I’ll be arrested. It’s really crazy,” he said.
Mr Otse said his appearance at the NBA conference allowed him to speak openly about insecurity and identify what he considered the institutions and individuals contributing to the problem.
“I’m proud of myself that right in their faces I said what I had to say and told them that the insecurity going on in Nigeria is aided by them. I stand by my word,” he said.
He specifically accused the police and military of benefiting from insecurity.
“They are the unknown gunmen. The police, military, immigration, customs are the unknown gunmen. They know what is going on in the country. They benefit from it. The governors, the politicians, they all benefit from these things,” he said.
He added that he was ready to face legal action over his allegations.
“All these security agents that I mentioned can charge me to court. But for the police, I am ready for you,” he said.
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