A video capturing Nigerian police officers allegedly accepting ₦5,000 each from a Chinese man and his family has gone viral, triggering public outrage and reigniting long-standing concerns about corruption in the Nigeria Police Force. The video, widely shared on social media, shows a row of uniformed officers lining up to receive cash directly from the foreign national, sparking disbelief and criticism from Nigerians across the country.
As the footage circulated, many citizens and human rights advocates expressed disgust, calling the act an embarrassment that reflects poorly on the country’s law enforcement system. Calls for accountability came swiftly, with critics describing the video as a clear display of unethical conduct and a stain on the integrity of the uniform.
When asked to comment, Force Public Relations Officer ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi stated that he was unaware of the incident. The Lagos State Police Command also denied involvement, distancing itself from the controversy. CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, spokesperson for the Lagos police, confirmed that the event did not take place in Lagos, contrary to speculation on social media.
Several public figures also responded. Omoyele Sowore, former presidential candidate under the African Action Congress (AAC), labeled the incident as disgraceful and used it to call for the removal of the current Inspector General of Police. In a Facebook post, he criticized IGP Kayode Egbetokun, saying the event highlighted deeper systemic failures and demanded urgent change.
Popular activist and social media personality Martins Victor Otse, known online as VeryDarkBlackMan, condemned the officers’ actions as disrespectful and degrading. He called on police authorities to respond transparently and take decisive steps to rebuild public trust.
The timing of the video’s release has added fuel to public frustration, coming just weeks before the government’s April deadline for a comprehensive police reform report. Many Nigerians are now using the incident as a rallying point to push for disciplinary measures and lasting institutional reforms. The demand for justice has grown louder, with citizens insisting that such behavior should not be swept under the rug.
