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A disturbing allegation of police misconduct has emerged in Makurdi, the Benue State capital, after human rights activist Ukan Kurugh shared a post on social media detailing an incident of alleged extortion by officers of the Nigeria Police Force. In the post, dated just days ago, Kurugh described events that reportedly occurred around 11pm one night near a bridge on the route to North Bank, a bustling suburb across the River Benue.
According to the account, police officers were stopping motorists under duress and demanding N200 from each, framing it as a compulsory fee despite no offense being committed. Kurugh, who claimed to have observed the scene firsthand while on his motorcycle—which lacked a registration plate, sparing him direct involvement— recounted watching as the officers physically assaulted a woman who refused or was unable to pay the amount. The confrontation escalated into a serious altercation, with Kurugh providing what he described as pictorial evidence and a short video clip to support his claims.
Kurugh directly tagged the Benue State Police Command in Makurdi, calling for immediate attention and investigation into the conduct of the officers involved. Ending his post on a sarcastic note with “I LOVE NIGERIA REGARDLESS,” accompanied by laughing and saluting emojis, the activist highlighted what he sees as a recurring issue of unchecked extortion on the roads.
This incident, if verified, adds to longstanding complaints about police checkpoints in Nigeria turning into points of illegal toll collection, particularly at night when oversight is limited. Motorists in many states, including Benue, have frequently reported similar experiences of being forced to part with small sums to avoid prolonged delays or harassment.
As of now, the Benue State Police Command has not issued a public response to these specific allegations. Such cases often draw scrutiny amid broader national concerns over police reform and accountability. Residents in Makurdi and surrounding areas continue to express frustration over road safety and security, hoping for swift action to address what appears to be a brazen display of abuse of power. The viral nature of the post may pressure authorities to investigate, as similar exposures in the past have led to disciplinary measures against errant officers.
