Activist Francis Nwapa has criticised the Nigeria Police Force over the arrest and detention of a woman who accused officers of extorting commuters along the Igbo-Ora–Eruwa Road in Oyo State. The woman was reportedly picked up by officers from the Ibarapa Area Command and transferred to Ibadan, where she was allegedly denied access to her lawyer.
The controversy began after the woman shared a video alleging that police officers routinely stop motorcyclists, students and other travellers to demand money. In the footage, she questioned why officers, who are salaried by the federal government, were allegedly extorting sums ranging from ₦20,000 to ₦30,000 from commuters. She also claimed that students travelling home for holidays were forced to pay despite pleading with officers.
Reacting to her arrest, Nwapa described the action as unlawful and an attack on freedom of expression. He argued that speaking out against alleged abuse of power should not attract detention, adding that the matter should be addressed through investigation rather than intimidation.
The activist further criticised the leadership of Inspector General Kayode Egbetokun, alleging that acts of harassment and impunity have increased in recent times. According to him, silencing whistleblowers undermines public trust and deepens concerns about accountability within the force.
Nwapa called for the woman’s immediate release, unhindered access to legal representation, and an independent probe into the alleged extortion along the route. He maintained that if the allegations are unfounded, authorities should establish the facts transparently rather than resort to arrests.