Police Extortion in Lagos: The Role of Investigative Journalism in Combating Systemic Misconduct

The bustling metropolis of Lagos, Nigeria, is not only the country’s economic hub but also a hotspot for systemic police misconduct, particularly extortion and theft. Over the years, reports of officers exploiting their authority to extort money from citizens—especially vulnerable groups like students, corps members, and ordinary civilians—have become alarmingly common. Amid this troubling landscape, the Foundation for Investigative Journalism (FIJ) has emerged as a critical watchdog, exposing corruption and holding law enforcement accountable. Through relentless investigative reporting, FIJ has brought numerous cases to light, forcing authorities to act and, in some instances, return stolen funds to victims.
This article examines the pervasive issue of police extortion in Lagos, the role of media pressure in combating it, and the urgent need for institutional reforms. By analyzing documented cases and the broader implications of unchecked misconduct, we explore how investigative journalism serves as both a deterrent and a catalyst for change.
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The Pervasiveness of Police Extortion in Lagos

Police extortion in Lagos is not an isolated problem but a systemic issue deeply embedded within law enforcement operations. Officers frequently target individuals under false pretenses—demanding bribes for fabricated offenses, confiscating money during unlawful arrests, or outright theft at gunpoint.
One of the most egregious cases involved Righteous Onobrakpeya, a prospective corps member who had N452,000 stolen from him by Lagos State Police officers on April 26, 2025. The money, meant for his mandatory National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) program, was only returned after FIJ’s investigation and subsequent media pressure. This case exemplifies a disturbing pattern: officers prey on vulnerable citizens, knowing that many lack the resources or connections to fight back.
FIJ’s reporting has uncovered at least 11 cases in December alone, where police officers collectively stole N2,487,000 from Nigerians at gunpoint. These incidents range from officers demanding bribes for the release of detained individuals to outright confiscation of money during illegal stops. The frequency of these occurrences suggests a culture of impunity, where officers act without fear of repercussions.

The Power of Media Pressure in Exposing Corruption

Investigative journalism has proven to be one of the most effective tools in combating police extortion. When cases are exposed, public outrage and media scrutiny force authorities to act—often leading to the recovery of stolen funds and, in rare cases, disciplinary action against rogue officers.
For instance, after FIJ reported the extortion of a shop owner by Lagos police, the Police Complaints Response Unit (CRU) intervened, securing the victim’s release and the return of his money. Similarly, a South Africa returnee who was extorted of N750,000 by officers at Langbasa Police Station in Ajah had his money returned following media pressure. These outcomes highlight how transparency and public shaming can compel law enforcement to rectify injustices they might otherwise ignore.
However, media exposure alone is not a permanent solution. Many victims never come forward due to fear of retaliation, and some cases go unreported because citizens distrust the system. This underscores the need for stronger institutional safeguards to protect whistleblowers and ensure accountability.

Systemic Reforms: The Path Forward

While FIJ’s work has been instrumental in exposing police misconduct, long-term solutions require structural reforms within the Lagos State Police Command. Key measures include:

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Conclusion: Journalism as a Catalyst for Change

The fight against police extortion in Lagos is far from over, but the efforts of organizations like FIJ demonstrate the transformative power of investigative journalism. By exposing corruption, amplifying victims’ voices, and pressuring authorities to act, FIJ has set a precedent for accountability in law enforcement.
However, media pressure alone cannot eradicate systemic misconduct. Sustainable change requires institutional reforms, stronger oversight, and community engagement. The Lagos State Police Command must take decisive action to rebuild public trust, ensuring that officers who exploit their power face consequences.
Ultimately, the battle against police extortion is not just about recovering stolen money—it’s about restoring justice, dignity, and faith in Nigeria’s law enforcement system. As FIJ continues to shine a light on these abuses, citizens, activists, and policymakers must work together to demand a police force that serves—not preys upon—the people.