The Ogun State Police Command has denied a publication dated February 12, 2025, alleging that an investigating police officer (IPO) extorted money in a civil case and threatened to jail an individual for refusing to pay N100,000.

In a statement issued yesterday, the command’s spokesperson, CSP Omolola Odutola, clarified that the case in question began on January 28, when one Rasheedat Adeshina, a resident of Ijoko, reported an assault at the police station. Adeshina, who arrived bleeding profusely from the forehead, identified one Wasilat Afeez as her assailant.

Odutola stated that Adeshina was issued a medical form and rushed to a hospital, where she was admitted for three days and received minor stitches on her head.

Following due process, Afeez was arrested and reportedly confessed to the assault. Once Adeshina was confirmed to be in stable condition, Afeez was granted administrative bail under the supervision of the Divisional Police Officer (DPO), with a return date set for further investigation.

Addressing the extortion allegation, Odutola said the claim that a police inspector demanded money and threatened to jail Afeez was false and misleading. She emphasised that no police officer has the authority to jail a suspect, as only a court of competent jurisdiction can determine case outcomes.

“The role of the police was strictly to investigate, ensure the victim received medical attention, and follow due legal procedures,” Odutola said. She dismissed the extortion allegation as unfounded, stating that no credible evidence supports it. Odutola urged the public to disregard the publication, describing it as a deliberate attempt to undermine the efforts of the police.

She encouraged the public to verify information through official police platforms and the Public Relations Department. She added that the command remains committed to transparency, accountability, and the protection of lives and property, while stressing that baseless accusations aimed at tarnishing the force’s reputation are unacceptable.

Also, the command refuted an online publication dated February 15, 2025, alleging illegal activities at the Ibafo Divisional Police Headquarters. The report, which described the station as a “bustling marketplace” for unlawful activities, was dismissed as baseless and misleading by the command.

In a statement, the command expressed concern over a trend where individuals resisting reforms fabricate allegations against officers committed to upholding the rule of law, protecting human rights, and combating crime.

Odutola, criticised what she described as untrained writers for failing to verify facts before publishing misleading narratives aimed at tarnishing the reputation of hardworking officers.

“Ibafo was once known for a high crime rate and violent criminal activities,” Odutola said. “However, under the leadership of the current DPO—renowned for his dedication to intelligence-led policing, regular patrols, synergy with security agencies, and proactive crime prevention strategies—the area has witnessed significant improvement in security.”

She noted that false reports often emanate from criminal elements seeking to discredit law enforcement. “The relative peace and security currently enjoyed in Ibafo stand as evidence of the professionalism of the police officers in the division. No credible complaints or proven cases of misconduct have been recorded against the DPO as alleged. Instead, residents of Ibafo have commended his efforts in ensuring safety and order in the community,” she added.

The command urged the public to support crime prevention initiatives rather than propagate unfounded allegations that undermine security efforts. Odutola also encouraged residents to verify information through official channels.